How to Find the Motivation to Run, Even When You Really Don’t Want To

We all have those days. Those bad ones. Even the best, most consistent, most vigilant runner sometimes falls on the wayside and have their off days where even they just want to take a breather and take the day off. Though most of us want to keep on going and try to keep to the routine, we tend to answer the call of the bed and those extra minutes of sleep or, the strong call of something else.

But the want to go running is there. The intention is there. What are the things that we can do to keep us motivated? What do professional athletes get this routine done? What can we learn to push ourselves to get exercising, running specifically done? Is this a mindset we should take on? Is it possible to learn that, or are we just really lazy?

The answer to this is YES. And it always just starts with HOW MUCH YOU WANT IT. Obviously, putting discipline upon yourself.

Why Choose Running?

Now whether or not you started running to lose weight, to get fit, or just because you wanted to go around the neighborhood, or try a new hobby, it does not matter. The first step of you starting is a good beginning. Maybe you have done several runs already, or maybe you have done two or three runs only. Regardless, there are a few ways you get your mindset back into running and try to continue on this healthy habit.

We can all agree that running is a fun and inexpensive way to get you into shape. All you need, basically, are your legs and a pair of comfortable sneakers. It is beneficial to your health, both physical and mental. Endorphins, your happy hormone, is produced in abundance, and it helps you get through your day, or end your day, in a more positive space in your mind. So why is trying to get back into it or get yourself up and go so hard on some days? Well, it is just because your body is trying to go back to your usual habits, especially if you are only starting out. The best way to deal with it is just you putting some discipline on yourself and stick to a routine.

How to Make Running More Enjoyable

We have three surefire tips that we have researched throughout the internet that may help you get your running mojo back on track!

Listen to Music

There are people that use music to help them to simultaneously motivate them and help them to focus at tasks at hand. “The trick is to really mix up your style. If you listen to the same songs every run, change them up for today’s top tunes.”[1] If you’ve listened to all possible playlists and are in need of new things to listen to, a great idea is also lining up some podcasts or even audio books to listen to during your run.

Pick a Goal

Experienced runners say that if you plan on something concrete – a distance, a certain time, a destination – it’ll help with your motivation to get up and move. Maybe one of the reasons why you are not motivated to run or keep to a routine, is because it is just that – a routine. You should spice it up sometimes; maybe try a new route, or try to aim for a new running time.

Remind Yourself Why You Started

Maybe because running has become a routine to you, you have lost sight about why you started this journey in the first place, and most importantly, WHY you liked it so much. What was it about running that got you hooked and why is that you keep going back to running. Is it a weight goal you are trying to achieve? Are you trying to train for a marathon? Or did you just want to be more fit and strong? You just feel better after a run? Those endorphins are never a bad reason either.

Don’t Be Too hard on Yourself

It is not bad to have an “off” day; we all need to rest once in a while. But if you are finding yourself not wanting to get back to something you really want to do, like this, it is a good idea to find a way to put the fun back into it. Running in and of itself has always been a choice for people who not only want to get fit, but also for those who want to engage in a sport that pushes themselves using themselves. Runners do not usually need to have weights (they can if they wanted to), or have any fancy equipment, and really, so long as you have a good pair of shoes and comfortable clothes, you can do it anywhere — even indoors! Hopefully, these simple tips will help you grab hold of that motivation and get it back. Happy running!

Sources:

“10 easy ways to motivate yourself to run” by On Running, https://www.on-running.com/en-us/articles/10-easy-ways-to-motivate-yourself-to-run
Mormille, Dara. “Running Motivation: How To Find Running Inspiration When You Just Don’t Want To Get Up”, Jan 18, 2019, https://rockay.com/blog/running-motivation/
Philpott, Shannon. “17 Proven Motivations to Get You Running”, Updated on February 20, 2019, https://www.livestrong.com/slideshow/1008152-17-proven-motivations-running/
Harrington, Megan. “8 Ways to Motivate Yourself to Run”, https://www.active.com/running/articles/8-ways-to-motivate-yourself-to-run
Russell, Sarah. “How to Keep Running When Motivation Fades”, https://runnersconnect.net/stay-motivated-to-run/
Luff, Christine. “16 Ways to Stay Motivated to Run”Reviewed by John Honerkamp, January 17, 2020, https://www.verywellfit.com/ways-to-stay-motivated-to-run-2911493