Whether you are looking to start an exercise regimen, or are looking to get in better shape, running is a popular and common suggestion for increasing your overall health and wellness. Running can be a great way to blow off steam and relax your mind. However, when you are trying to improve yourself as a runner, or even just starting out running, it can be extremely difficult to enjoy the exercise, let alone force yourself to do it.
The following are some helpful methods for getting yourself to go running, and keep running. You’re sure to see improvements in your running- be it a faster time, a farther distance, or just plain getting in shape- if you utilize these tips.
1. Adopt a Mantra- Mantras can be extremely helpful in pushing yourself and reminding yourself why you are doing what you’re doing in the first place. Pick a word or phrase that truly speaks to you and is positive that will be sure to beat out any thoughts of negativity.
2. Find YOUR song– For those who run with music, its imperative that you have your ultimate pump-up song ready to go when you feel yourself slacking. It can be anything that works for you and keeps you going, just make sure you have one!
3. Positivity!– A lot of what keeps you from running or continuing running is purely mental. Therefore, it is important to focus on the positive- why you are running, how much better you are making yourself, how far you have come and how much farther you will go. These thoughts can help to push out those negative thoughts.
4. Keep good form- When you start to doubt yourself mentally, this is when your running form generally starts to deteriorate as well, which can make running even more miserable. Keep your shoulders back, your chest up and focus on steady breathing. This can both take your mind off the negative and make your running more comfortable.
These are just a few ways that can make running easier and more manageable for those of all levels of fitness. To see more examples of tips and tricks for better running, check out this post.