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Some discussion recently about how to fit running/exercise round work and maintain motivation as we head back to school and into Winter. Thought I’d share some things that help me. Sorry, started short but got longer ... If I blogged, I'd have blogged it. Do chip in!
1. Run with others. Good social runs are loads of fun, and if you’ve made plans to go out it helps keep you motivated and accountable. @SPBeale tweeted about HTBC run club for online support https://www.strava.com/clubs/HTBCRC
2. Running with others that are a bit better/more experienced will make you a better runner (if that’s your goal). I got so much advice, confidence and made some cherished friends from running socially with more experienced runners and just having a go at new things.
3. Before work: get an early night, lay out your kit so you’re not faffing, know your route and how long it will take you. Nothing worse than feeling rushed/late for work. Maybe try 1 early run to start with, on a Friday or a “light” timetable day.
4. After work: I find that if I sit down, I sometimes struggle to get up again so maybe go out as soon as you get home! It’s a great way to unwind after a long day or to have a break before doing some evening work. Plan it into weekly routine, have kit ready.
5. Be visible and safe: even if you’re pounding well lit pavements, it’s about you being seen. Don’t need to spend £££, one of my best head torches was an Alpkit, bout £15. If running off-road you will need more lumens. Hi-vis reflective vests are cheap and go over any kit.
6. Running with music: do it by all means if it helps you, but please make sure you consider your own safety and that of others using shared paths. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
7.Consider joining club 1: Not all are competitive if that’s not your bag. A good way to meet people to run with socially, coached sessions are great for improving form/confidence/routine. Find local clubs here: https://www.englandathletics.org/find-an-athletics-club/
8. Joining local club 2: Try different clubs/sessions and find one that suits before committing. Even if formal sessions are yet to resume, making contact via social media/website means someone can “greet” you, you can get to know people a bit before you meet for a session.
9. Good old fashioned batch cooking! Not only economical if you live alone, also means you can have a nutritious home-cooked dinner ready to zap in the microwave when you get in from an after-work run. Milkshake also an absolute winner if it's not tea time.
10. No such thing as bad weather just poor prep: dress accordingly but be aware that you will warm up. Bumbag/vest for spare kit? In my experience you never come home from a run and wish you hadn’t bothered, so just get out there and get it done, you'll feel better
11. Strength workouts (core, glutes): sounds dull but staves off injury. Just once a week is enough, you don’t need kit and can do it in the front room/wherever. Lots online, try https://www.kinetic-revolution.com/
12. Remember it should be fun and enjoyable– if it isn’t fun it becomes a chore and you won’t want to do it. Maybe try switching up your routes if bored, try trails instead of pavement, make it a social run, reward yourself with cake, try a new route at the weekend etc.
