We’re sure you started 2011 determined to make this the year you smashed your running goals. But just in case that New Year fervour is starting to fade, we asked Sharon Davies to share a few words of advice and encouragement to help keep you motivated through the tricky month of March.


Team up
If you are beginning to feel a little jaded about your running and can’t quite find the door when training time comes around, maybe it’s time to team up with a running buddy or join a local running club. The Running Bug Forum and Groups are a great place to start. Running with other people makes it more fun, can be safer, takes your mind off the miles, and gives you at least one extra reason to get going.


Set a Goal
Another motivation tool is to train for a specific race or achievable goal. You can plan to run a race, whether it’s a beginner’s 5k or full marathon, or even just aim to run a set amount of days or distance per week. If you do fancy a race, use the Events Search to find one near you. This will help you to stay focused.


Spice it up
Think about adding a bit of variety to your normal running routine. Maybe try a different route or opt for an indoor session on a treadmill if you can’t face running outside. Cross training with different types of exercise is great training and helps keeps boredom at bay, cycling and swimming are both brilliant for general fitness and have many benefits for runners.


Get Warm
Warming up before leaving for your run will not only help you avoid injury, it’ll also get you prepared mentally for the exercise, making staying motivated all the easier. Take five to ten minutes to run on the spot indoors and perform a few legs swings or your favourite warm up routine, before venturing outside.

Stay Warm
It is particularly important to look after yourself when running in the colder months. Shivering after choosing clothing that isn’t warm enough for the conditions can dampen the motivation for even the most dedicated runner. So layer-up and when you head out in cold weather – you can always take them off if you get too hot.

Avoid giving yourself a chill by taking off damp clothes as soon as possible after running. Warm up with a hot shower or steaming bowl of soup.


Sharon Davies is a freelance journalist and writes a regular running blog at southbristolrunner.blogspot.com.


Related Articles

SMART Goal Setting

Mental training tips

Running training plans


Now share your tips for staying motivated via the comments box below.