It's seems like every Spring as the weather starts to improve, I get motivated to start a running program. I usually do Ok for the first few weeks, but very shortly I get bored and within a month or so, I've dropped out. What can I do to stick to a running program?
You're not alone. A lot of people get zealous when the sky is blue and the sun is shining. But the key to sticking to any fitness program is finding an activity that you enjoy enough to do regularly. Our first thought is that perhaps running may not be the right form of exercise for you. You've said that you've initiated a running program many times but you have a difficult time sticking with it because you get bored of the activity. Running just for the sake of running without finding any enjoyment in it will result in each run being a struggle to complete. And soon, as you've experienced, you drop it all together. We'd like to suggest you try a different activity. If you like being outside, perhaps try inline skating, power-walking, cycling or hiking. When deciding whether an activity is the right one for you ask yourself some of the following questions:
- Do I find the activity pleasurable? Do I like it? Is it a lot of fun? Does it make me happy?
- Am I interested in the activity? Is it stimulating?
- Do I get absorbed in the activity?
- Do I feel energized during or after the activity? Is it invigorating? Is it refreshing?
- Does the activity give me a sense of accomplishment? Is it gratifying?
If you answered yes to all these questions, you've made a good choice. If you've answered no to these questions and you find the activity unpleasant, boring, frustrating, and you hate every second of it, you should reconsider your choice and search for an activity that will provide you with more enjoyment. After all the best activity in the world is not "running" - it's the activity that you enjoy enough to participate in enough to experience results and get hooked!
A couple notes, however, if you are stuck on becoming a runner. In the beginning, running may feel like a chore but eventually, usually after a couple months, it will become much more enjoyable. A lot of runners refer to this phenomenon as "getting into the zone". Once you get past the beginning stages when all you can do is watch the clock and pray that the workout is almost over, your body will adapt and it will not be a struggle with every stride.
So in the beginning, will power and discipline is definitely involved. Use music to keep it interesting. Encourage a friend to run with you to make the time pass more quickly and help you with your adherence. Be sure to cross-train so running is not the only activity you do. And finally, mix up your running workouts. One day run long and slow, another day run shorter but harder - try hills, track workouts and intervals to keep your running program interesting.
Good luck! |
