It’s that time of year when the gyms are full, motivation is high, and dreams are big — even if the plans aren’t so hashed out. And that’s OK. Starting something or falling short of a goal is better than not at all. Pretty much all of that applies to your running, too. And if running more in the new year is one of your goals, it’s probably well within in your reach. Here are a few tried-and-true strategies to get you there!
Schedule Your Runs:
This is a small one, but the payout is big. Plan your runs for the week ahead. Use a planner, calendar, or scheduling app to mark the specific times you’ll dedicate to running. You’ll find it’s much easier to keep an appointment when it’s already on the calendar. Consider the time of day that works best for you, and – to the best of your ability – keep that time sacred. Early morning runs can energize you for the day, while lunchtime or evening runs can help relieve stress.
Be Flexible
Family priorities, kids, school, work deadlines, travel, etc., can make for an inconsistent running schedule. And that’s OK, too. Embrace the opportunity to catch a run whenever the opportunity presents itself. Meeting cancelled? Go for a run. Your turn to pick up at the kids’ soccer practice? Get there early and get some laps in around the field. Could you literally run that Amazon return to the UPS store? You get the idea. Have a bag or stack of weather-appropriate running gear at the ready, and you’ll be on the run in a moment’s notice.
Find Your Tribe
This one might be easier than you think. With more than 70 run clubs in the Charlotte area, there just might be a day, time, place, and pace that work for most everyone. Finding a running club or workout group where you feel at home will make it easier to get those miles when the weather, work, your mood, etc., might conspire to keep you at home. And if you’re one of the 117 people moving to Charlotte every day, run clubs are a great way to meet new people, and your new hometown.
Join a Training Program
Want some real accountability? Invest in your running by joining a training program or hiring a running coach. When you commit to working with a coach, you’re more likely to stick to your training schedule, as the financial and time investment encourages consistency. Money will do that. This structured approach helps you avoid procrastination and stay motivated. Plus, coaches and training programs provide you with expertise and insights on proper running form, injury prevention, nutrition, and race strategies.
A Little Bit Adds Up:
If a running routine or formal training program feels overwhelming or unworkable given your other commitments, work, life, or family priorities; don’t sweat it. Set smaller, more achievable goals and watch the miles pile up. If you’re currently running twice a week, could you add a third day? If adding another run day isn’t doable, shoot for adding another 5-10 minutes to your run time, and build from there.
Rather than dwelling on the runs you didn’t make, celebrate the ones you did. Keep a running journal to track your progress and mark your achievements. Look back on that journal next year to see what worked for you, and how you could make even more time to run the next year!
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