#runnerbliss

[runwildgurl]

When you’ve lost the motivation to run (or whatever it is you love to do...)

Every runner has gone through this...I’m sure. Well, at least that is what I tell myself, because no one wants to feel alone in the pit of despair. So, at least I’ve lost the motivation to run sometimes, in my few short years as a runner. It makes me physically ill when I have gone through the times, because I know that I love being active, and running around, and racing! I love competition! I love being an athlete! 

But still, those times come around and snatch your motivation for something you love doing. In addition to my own experiences, I’ve seen other runners on social media announce their low moments and I’ve read about them in RunnersWorld. Suggestions to help yourself climb out of the pit include:

1. Shake things up! Change your same old route, focus on different racing distances, or go shopping for fun workout clothes or gadgets. Don’t just go out and run the same distance at the same speed. You can vary the types of workouts, so that you have speed days and long distance days. I don’t like to run the same place two days in a row! I have to change the scenery and the type of workout. I love having different types of races on my calendar, and I love to go shopping...much to my sweet&patient husband’s dismay!

2. Cross-training. YES! There are more ways to get a cardio workout in, and I enjoy swimming, pumping it out on the rowing machine, and because it’s good to appreciate the activities you do enjoy, my coach throws in some bike workouts (ugh...but I get it done, and then I get my rowing on, hehehe). I also love having slower paced days that include going to yoga class. Not only do I feel amazing afterwards because I feel strong and flexible and balanced, and sometimes you DO work up a sweat, but getting into a class and being around other people is a GOOD thing! Insert peaceful smile here.

3. Speaking of being around other people...join a group. Chat other people up, make some friends, go running without an agenda. It’s refreshing. You don’t have to be as fast as others in the group, because in reality, some runners that can run fast don’t always want to run fast. I enjoy slowing down for a conversation and to take in the scenery. 

4. Lastly, if you truly dread getting out and running, then take a break. TAKE A FREAKIN’ BREAK! Don’t feel guilty! Go hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, or simply try a new sport. I have absolutely hated the feeling of dreading even running a race that I have really enjoyed in the past. Then I run slower as a result and don’t feel good about it at all! So, I took a break. Although, if you have goals that you want to accomplish in the sport of running, I suggest putting a date on the calendar to start running again. One time I took a break for 2-3 months, and then eased back into running again. I put a 5k on the calendar to motivate me a little more, and boom! I was back in the game and happier for it! 

So, remember you’re not alone. There are ways to shake up the routine, and if all else fails, take a break and enjoy it. Guilt-free zone. Lots of smiles!

[beachrunr]

I don't need any encouragement to buy new #runningshoes but now I have it in writing #RunnerProbs #runnerbliss #mondaymotiviation #running #nike #stravarunning #nikeshoes

[boricuatuits]

Sunrise 🌅 run views San Juan Puerto Rico @RunnerBliss @pedalgadgets http://bit.ly/2M2etLZ | August 03, 2018 at 11:16PM

[fishing-exposed]

@Tom_E_Angel: Went as far as I could from everyone to enjoy some peace. Weather was great for this time of year on the Texas Gulf Coast. Now to whip up some red snapper fish tacos and 🍻 #runchat #runnerbliss https://t.co/cpDif7wZ4U

[lemme-gypsy]

Runner Bliss @RunnerBliss

RT @sweatscience: Interesting piece by @bstulberg -> Why Rich People Love Endurance Sports @outsidemagazine http://ift.tt/2uxTIuI

[herrbodin]

Ett löpsteg som behöver omsorg tydligen 🏃🏻💨🤔 #UpForMore #RunnerBliss #RunnerBliss #running

[halftohalf]

Perfect way to start the day, no?

[ashyflash]

#runnerbliss #selfie 5sectimer #perthect heat training blue sky running :)

[runwildgurl]

Reflecting on how I ran 2016

In a bizarre twist of the holiday season, I'm actually done! Done decorating, baking for others, mailing gifts to be at their door before Christmas, mailing cute photo cards, etc. So I find myself reflecting on how 2016 went for me...some goals were met, others were just missed and still other goals weren't even close! My running goals for 2016 included finishing a full marathon. I registered for the Space Coast Marathon in March, and ran it in November. Telling people about it all year long, and training for it, physically and mentally! To say the least, I was exhausted when it was over and so happy! Many runners have goals of PR's (personal records, or PB, personal bests), and I'm no different. I had goals of crushing my previous years' times, but quickly found out, I was not getting up and over a certain "wall". Although I PR'd on my 5k and 10k, it wasn't my goal time and it wasn't bested by much. I didn't think I was being unrealistic, but dang, that "wall" was a tough opponent this year! I also PR'd in the 1 mile, but I also hadn't ever raced it before, lol. I did not, however, PR in the half marathon. I did something better. I discovered something about myself. Even though I may get sick or feel a lot of pain, I can dig deep, find my grit, and finish a race. Half or full marathon, a heck of a long race, but I can finish. For that experience, I'm freaking proud of myself. Running 2016, I learned a lot and grew from it. Now to take that, and beat that "wall" in 2017!

[halftohalf]

Mile 13.2 -- this is what it's all about. 

Pink Visor -- My tiny reminder of a runner and charismatic soul, Jen King. She died in August 2011 in a freak lightning strike while on vacation. Her favorite color was pink, so I decided to get this pink visor and wear it during the OC Half Marathon in May 2012. I've worn it in every road race I've participated in since. 

Guinness -- This year I WILL make it to Dublin with my wife as our annual international trip. Last year we missed going international (for a number of reasons I won't get into here) and this year we're making it happen!

[halftohalf]

Mile 4. Feeling strong. 

[halftohalf]

This is what it looks like when 7K people are in front of you in line.

Wave 7, bib 11325.

[halftohalf]

Race day started out with a pretty fantastic view.