How do you step back into the running routine?!

Sometimes you just need to take some time out from running, whether it's because you need to, or because you want to. Or maybe weeks or even months have passed and you think OOPS I haven't been for a run.

But how do you get back to it? How do you go about getting back into that first run?!

Book some races
There's nothing that motivates me more than setting some dates, that really makes me get off my arse.

Baby steps
It's all good and well thinking I'm going to go out there and smash 10 miles. But you're not geared up for that anymore. Why would you do that to your body? I like to start with a nice gentle 3 miler, nice and slow, then go from there.

Why do you run?
You have fallen out of love with running, take a step back and think why you like to run.  Personally I like lists so I'd make a list of reasons why I run.

Set up a crackin' playlist
Music is my motivator. I like to set up a great playlist with a mixture of  tunes so I can get lost in my own world whilst I run.

Set aims
Do you run because you like to achieve certain targets?  Well you're not going to achieve them sitting on your Ahole. Write down the aims, and then set steps of how you are going to get there.  Stick it up on your fridge, by your bed, or your front door. Somewhere you are going to see it everyday.

Training plans
They don't work for everyone but if you have never run a particular distance before, then a training plan is a good place to start.  Find one that suits you, there's tons out there!! And then tailor it to suit your needs.

Reward yourself
I don't mean get all your favorite ice creams and consume 2000 calories in one sitting.  By all means do this if you wish, but its not something I am recommending.  What I mean is, have a rest, make a cup of tea and watch a film, make your favourite dinner, have a piece of chocolate. Have a good sleep.

Invite a friend
Struggling to go by yourself? I never used to run in the daytime on my own.  Was too embarrassed. If you set a certain time and date with a friend or running partner, you are more likely to go.

Have no friends who run?
Join a running club. Again if you look forward to seeing your running friends at the club every week, you are more likely to go!

Don't overdo it
You have done your first run and you think great! I have so much to catch up on! So you book a spin class for 6am the next day, or you go for another run the next evening.  I've done it before.
NO! Stop. By all means stay active but you're not going to gain anything by overdoing it and doing too much all at once. Ease yourself into it gently.  Your body is not used to this. Start by 2 or 3 runs in the first week, not too fast or long distance. If that feels fine then you can gradually increase the speed and distance as the weeks go by.  DON'T BREAK YOURSELF!!

I won't lie to you, the first week back will be hard. But persist and you will get there!


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