How to run everyday.
So today is the 1st of October and I have decided to run everyday for the month of October like I did 2 years ago (although I continued for a year that first time). This is organised through the running brand Ronhill and they have lots of giveaways along the way to help keep you motivated.
I am pleased to say that this time I have motivated a number of other people to try it too, including my husband! So thought I would share some thoughts and ideas of how to get through this month enjoying it rather than hating it.....
Firstly, through conversations I have had recently, you don't have to run a marathon everyday! Getting out there and doing it is the most important thing, the distance will come later when you get fitter and build up your confidence. Examples of what friends are doing; running to the bus stop with the kids in the morning, taking a shorter lunch break and running at midday.
I was asked "who is going to look after the kids whilst I do it", take them with you was my response - "oh yeah, I didn't think of that". Go before they wakeup is another option, but not everybody likes running in the dark. You will be surprised how you manage to fit it in once you work it into your daily routine.
Mind over matter. The most difficult thing in the beginning is keeping those positive thoughts going, it's your head that gets you out of the door and then the legs do the running. You will find as the month goes on that your legs get used to doing this everyday and even when you are tired or feeling under the weather, you will always feel better afterwards.
Stretching. To avoid injury make sure you do some stretching before and after, this will help keep you going everyday. A friend recently told me to use a foam roller on my legs, "I do", I said but his suggestion was to use it before the run, which I had never thought of, I only used it afterwards. This has made a difference and I really appreciate the advice Chris Leach.
Run with other people. Sometimes it's nice to have a bit of company along the way. You don't have to talk constantly, but knowing someone is there with you can be quite comforting. Also, if you are chatting, the run goes a lot quicker than you expect. A little bit of friendly competition is always good, so try some interval training together and see your competitive streak kick in!
Mix it up. If you do the same route for 31 days, you will get bored. It is important to mix up the routes, distance, type and the time of day you run. This way you will find out which suits you best. We have signed up for a few organised runs in October, this way you get to discover different places and routes without having to plan them yourself. Bonus! For those living in the UK, if you haven't already done so, take advantage of a local Park Run. Organised and run by volunteers, it's a great way to get running. If you want more of a challenge, search online for local/national organised runs.
But it's raining... so today it is pouring with rain and has been all day. Do you know that skin is waterproof?? There's something invigorating about running in the rain, I always seem to run faster too. I don't think it's because I want it over and done with, I think it's because you feel proud of yourself for getting out there 'whatever the weather'.
Fuel your body. You will feel tired, as your body is not used to running this often. Try and refuel on healthy meals/snacks and make sure you drink plenty of water. You may find having a snack mid morning and mid afternoon will help you with dipping energy levels.
If you haven't already done so, sign up online.
http://www.ronhill.com/runeveryday/
Good luck and let me know how you get on.