5 tips to find new running motivations in lockdown 3.0
In March 2020, when the world stopped in its tracks, streets were packed with newbie runners picking up the activity as a way to get some fresh air once a day, or simply for something to do during the long days of lockdown.
No one would have expected that almost a year later we would, once again, find ourselves under a strict lockdown. Put the cold and damp winter weather on top of this and you have an ultimate recipe for running demotivation.
Here at Run For Heroes, we’re definitely feeling the weight in our legs and the sofa calls at even the slightest thought of going for a run, let alone while trying to get out the house.
And so, we called for help from the amazing sport psychologist and founder of Optimise Potential, Hannah Stoyel. Here’s her top five tips to get back into running even when motivation is at its lowest:
- Just existing is enough
Not putting pressure on yourself is the first rule to a good exercise routine. Hannah says that, especially in these challenging times, we have to be more self-compassionate and appreciative of ourselves.
“If you are just going out for the same, short, easy plod, that’s fine, you’ve done something,” she says. “Sometimes with these lockdowns, we have this obsession about having to use the time to be productive and learn a new skill or get faster at running. We don’t. Actually, just doing a bit of movement for your mental health is great, and you don’t need to do more than that.”
2. Find a purpose for your running
With the cancellation of so many running events, it can be hard to find reasons to go running. Finding a charity to raise money for could be a great way to get yourself back into the right gear.
Hannah says: “Sometimes you just need to be running for something outside of you, there’s a lot of amazing charities that could use all of our support right now.”
3. Create a virtual running team
Another great way to motivate yourself is to find a running buddy or even a running team virtually to keep each other accountable.
“If you can work with friends and colleagues to have a joint goal to train towards that can help you in these times, because that’s what we’re missing from our race days,” she explains.
4. Investing in the right kit
This does not necessarily mean spending all your money in running gear, but instead making sure that you have the right equipment to make your experience more enjoyable.
“The right kit can really help to make sure you are feeling safe and warm while running — there’s no need to be uncomfortable for the sake of it,” Hannah says.
5. Make realistic plans and be reasonable with your fitness level
Often just doing a little bit every day can go a long way to making sure that you are doing what you are comfortable with. “It’s much better to be able to exercise and enjoy movement more often.
‘If you’ve never run before and you go out and smash a 10K, then you can’t walk the next day — you’re likely to not want to do anything the week after’ Hannah says.
Whatever you aim or experience with running is, start with what you know you’ll enjoy and the rest will come with time. Have fun with it!
Written by Run For Heroes staff writer, Andrea Gaini
