How do I get motivated to go running?

Question

Last year I ran or walk every day, and really enjoyed it. For 2 months now I haven't done anything.

Answer 1

When I first started, I personally didn't really have any motivation to run until I was actually running. The first mile was always a struggle; I always wanted to stop so badly. But once you get into a "comfort zone," I found motivation to keep going until I really got tired. Plus, I always felt really good about myself after I'd taken a run.

And after a while, the results that running produced (a leaner figure, better sleeping patterns, it was easier for me to participate in other physical activities like biking and swimming, improved overall health, etc.) really motivated me to keep going.

So I would say, you just have to get up and do it. Once you're out there running, you'll feel really good about yourself, and after you've been running for a while, you'll start to feel bizarre if you HAVEN'T run. My dad calls it "the runner's bug."

Good luck!

Answer 2

It could just be the weather, you know.. Right now I'm kind of not in the mood to get out in this humidity. I'm 53/F vegetarian and have been a marathon runner 5 years now.. I've only missed 2 days in 5 years (and this is because my kid was sick and needed me.) it is NOT easy ..You have to be dedicated. I don't know.. but what Arnold Schwartenegger said sticks in my mind.. He's got those 'hunks' of muscles and said, "w/my power lifting routine, I don't 'think' .. I just DO IT" and that about sums it up. Some days you're all geared, others you're half dead.. it kind of ties in w/what you eat the night before (for me..) I run best in the rain.. and when it's in the 40-50's I'm in heaven. I look forward to my run.. I'm now up to 5 miles. If you need to take a break, walk a block.. (oh, just reread that.. you said you walked or ran.. I'd run over walking.. start off w/a walk.) You need to 'give yourself a reward' for doing it.. maybe that'd help. What would you crave/or what would make you want to walk a mile? (a sudsy bath for example? ha) I'm thinking chocolate here.. (yum!) You can do it.. go back to your exercise routine.. I'm sure of it.

Answer 3

Running is mental in all ways.

I motivate myself by going to scenic areas to run on the weekends (ocean, foothills, etc.). During the week, I remember how I felt from my weekend runs.

Check out NikeRunning.com, and see if they have training runs in your area. These are awesome. Shoe trials, raffles and a lot of support. You can find a good running partner at these runs.

Or you can wear clothes that make you look like someone you and your friends talk about.

Answer 4

The greatest motivation for running that I can imagine would be for you to walk up and down the streets of Bagdhad screaming,"Muslims are dogs and we Americans are dog trainers!" Or you could go to San Francisco and walk the streets shouting "Gay marriage sucks!" Or go to Tijuana and yell, "Americans don't want those jobs, but even more we don't want YOU!" Make up your own variations if you like, but the important part of getting motivated is to put yourself on the line. Good luck.

Answer 5

I'm not one too big for music, but I try to look at the time it takes me actually go running vs. other workouts. Ex: any class would be an hour long, while running only takes me half an hour and I get just as sweaty and fit... I also count or take company, even my little doxie motivates me... I hope this helps

Answer 6

Start walking again. Get on that regemin, for a week or two. Then after that, break it up. Start walking, then run for a bit (all at the same session), go on and off,end up with running. Build up your stanima to run. the mixed tape/IPOD thing is good too. I know i want to get back into running. But it's too hot for that now.

Answer 7

Think about it. When you get something to eat for your meals, do you think to yourself, Should I eat today? For a lot of people, no. Then how come when it comes to exercise, people always ask themselves these questions and find excuse to not do it. Well, because exercising is not their habit yet. So next time, dont stop to think whether you should run and get on the treadmill or go outside. Make it habit.

Answer 8

I find it best to find a walking/running buddy. If you have someone to partner up with, you're more likely to keep motivated. When my girlfriend and I walked together, I did it everyday. When she stopped, so did I.

If you can't find a running buddy, than just say you're going to do it and GO! NO EXCUSES! :)

Answer 9

That's one of the problems with home exercising, some people tend to stop or not do it. I'm am advocate of gyms for people like that. I'm one of them. Yeah it might cost, but when I get in the parking lot, whether I feel like being there or not, I'll go in and workout. And at least I did it. I do feel better when I'm done. Better that I went and did it at least.

Answer 10

Enlist a friend to drag you out of the house to walk. Or challenge you. You might consider trying to walk or run somewhere else or go to a gym to change your routine.