Don’t Run as Punishment
Running is a great way to lose or maintain weight, but can you enjoy the fitness benefits of running without solely making it a calorie-burning penance? If you only run to burn off high-calorie foods, or you only dedicate yourself when the scale isn’t looking the way you like, it can start to feel like your runs only serve as punishments.
Likewise, while running can be a great stress reliever, if you only run when you’re feeling stressed, you’ll never get to experience the joy of a “just for fun” run. Constant negative associations like these will quickly turn your favorite feel-good activity into a grudge fest.
Try tying your runs to positive motivations to develop a new perspective. For example, creating a running ‘bucket list’ can help you focus on exciting milestones such as running your first 5K or running your first out-of-state race. Checking these wins off your list will build both anticipation and excitement for each upcoming run.
The sense of accomplishment from completing a race after weeks of training or the renewed feeling you get from spending time outdoors are a few examples of positive running motivations you can embrace. Lean into a positive mindset as you embark on new strides in your running journey.