Make sure you start 2013 determined to make this the year you smash your running goals. We share a few words of advice and encouragement to help keep you motivated and achieve your running resolutions.

1. Team up
If you can’t quite find the door when training time comes around, maybe try teaming 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.


2. 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. Also, you've got a much better chance of achieving your goals by setting them the SMART way.


3. 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. Need some advice? Try reading How to Train on a Treadmill.

Cross training with different types of exercise is great and helps keeps boredom at bay, cycling and swimming are both brilliant for general fitness and have many benefits for runners. Try out these 4 Essential Cross Training Techniques for Runners.


4. 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.

5. 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.

More from The Running Bug
Running Discussion Forum		How to Train Your Mind to Run Better		5 Reasons to Relax and Recover		3 Diets That Are Good for Runners
Join the conversation in our buzzing forums. Over 100,000 runners are already talking!		Even for a casual runner, a positive attitude is just as important – if not more – than physical capability.		The Running Bug is giving you permission to swap your running shoes for slippers now and then this Christmas.		Fiona Bugler picks three of the top diets that will help you shift the pounds.