Finding your motivation

It’s OK to admit that you’re not always leaping out of the front door with enthusiasm when it comes to doing exercise; the key is to find what will help you lace up those runners on the days when you'd rather relax on the sofa...

The fact of the matter is, not all of us can find the motivation to run simply because we know that it’s good for us. That’s why it can be really useful to find something that will encourage you to get off the sofa and into your running shoes. A

The trick is finding something that works for you, something that will not just encourage you to go out and run once — but something that will encourage you to go out and run again, and again.

So, to get you started, we’ve rounded up five of the best ways to motivate yourself to get out there.

1. Reward yourself

Set yourself a goal and choose how you’re going to treat yourself once you reach it. The thought of a nice new pair of running shoes or a relaxing massage will act as an incentive on the days that you really don’t feel like it. See it as an investment in yourself!

Alternatively, you could build up your rewards over a period of time and treat yourself to something at the end of a block of training.

2. Raise money for charity

Sign up to an event such and run for a charity that's important to you. You’ll have a reason to get out there for training runs, knowing that all that effort is for a great cause. You could even encourage people to sponsor you on the condition that you’ll run a certain number of times a week to act as extra encouragement.

3. Join a local running community or club

Running communities give you a place to discuss your progress, ask questions and celebrate your achievements. Connecting with like-minded people is great for motivation as you quickly find others on the same running journey. Find your local club here.

Alternatively sign up to your local Parkrun and make the 5k walk or run part of your weekly routine. You can find a list of your local Parkruns here.

4. Look forward to enjoying some me time

Had a long, hard day at work? Think of your evening run as a reward — something that will make you feel better and give you time to think — rather than another chore to add to an endless to-do list.

We feel most motivated when we feel that we want to do something, not that we should. And remember, if you head out and after 10 minutes you really can’t take any more you have the option to turn around and go home safe in the knowledge that 10 minutes of exercise is still better than zero.

5. Set yourself the challenge

Never run a 5k or 5 mile before? Well set yourself a goal and put the plan in place to be on the startline when that 5k comes areound that you've always wanted to do.

The Athletics Ireland Races Series in the Phoenix Park is a great place to start with race options for 5k, 5mile and 10mile spread nicely throughout the summer.

 

There's a run in #allofus

Don't forget to enter our Great Athletics Giveaway for your chance to win some amazing prizes to help get you up and runnning.