Winter is approaching. For some, this means that running motivation can be seriously challenged. Cold, long, and dark days are not the ideal recipe for a run. But what tools can you use when it takes a little extra from us in these months?
Our elite runner, Jakob Gade, has shared his useful tips. Find all his tips and tricks in the article below.
Find a Running Buddy
An agreement is an agreement. And an agreement with a running buddy is a sure thing.
If the couch is calling a bit too much in the morning or evening, making running appointments can be a very good tool.
A running appointment makes it harder for you to win your inner debate that one hour of Netflix is better than the 5 kilometers agreed with a buddy. For suddenly, before you know it, you're already out for a fresh run with your buddy. And as we all know, you'll never regret a run once it's run.
So grab a running buddy, or maybe you have a family member who will cycle with you? It could also be the kids, that way you also spend some active time together.
Prepare Clothes the Night Before
Sure, it can be tough to get straight out of bed and run before work. So why not make it a bit easier for yourself? Make it a habit to prepare your running clothes the night before. I practically jump straight from bed into my running gear, and then I'm almost halfway out the door.
It's a small detail, but it has a huge impact.
Be Grateful
Gratitude: something most of us can surely improve on and just forget in everyday life. Remember to remind yourself how lucky you truly are: You have the chance to run! That you have the time and energy to do something good for yourself. It can be an incredibly strong motivational factor.
Without talking too much about myself, during my runs around the world, I've experienced people looking quite amazed when I run by. Who would waste energy on running?
We are incredibly privileged to be able to exercise as an active choice in daily life.
And then there's the injured runner who would do anything to run and use their body for the freedom that movement gives. I've spent many hours with sore heels or tendons just wishing I could do exactly what I wanted.
So remember this: Use the freedom.
Create Habits
Autumn/winter may very well be the toughest time to get out. But try to turn it to your advantage – if you create good habits now, you've laid the foundation for a great season next year. Filled with positive and active experiences. I guarantee there's immense satisfaction in getting through a fall/winter without having to start from scratch when the good weather appears early next year.
An additional note to this part is that it's fantastic to follow nature up close as the weeks roll by.
That was all for this time. I hope you all have the courage and desire to get out and enjoy the good weather. I will definitely be heading to the woods this weekend.
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