Enough running procrastination, here's how to get out the door..

Last Saturday I spent 3 hours thinking about going for a run before I actually went running. I could have saved myself an entire morning of procrastination if I had made a plan in advance. When I’m not accountable to anyone else my resolve can quickly diminish and I easily prioritise everything else ahead of running. The only way I have successfully managed to keep myself on the straight and narrow, most of the time, is to be accountable to someone else.  

Group Support  

Some people have an inbuilt discipline that keeps them dedicated to any challenge they set themselves. I don’t have that gene. Folks like me thrive in a group environment where the support and the company keep us engaged. If you are also guilty of being a running procrastinator, never underestimate the power of a running buddy or some local community support in helping you to get moving and stay motivated. If the voices in your head are experts at creating excuses, try replacing them with encouraging words from others. They may need your support as much as you need them.  

The Couch Potato 

The exceptionally wet winter this year has meant that much of the new year positivity and energy diminished early in the year.  I have never seen the parks and footpaths as quiet in February. Many of our January goals were put to the side when it all became too wet and miserable.In out community we had a goal for January to complete A mile per day run walk or crawl but get out for on mile and many of us found it was the most motivation to get out into the fresh air. You can see some of the highlights of this challenge here. Without a further goal unfortunately, much of the eagerness is shortlived and without regular reminders and accountability the couch can regain its appeal after a burst of new year activity. 

Team Spirit 

Some of the people who have remained most dedicated to their training this year are those who are got involved in local walking/running initiatives in the new year and have enjoyed the camaraderie and support of the group. We have our regurlar weekly classes going on in Sandymount and Clontarf and the general concensus when we meet every week is that we just wont do it alone.

Others who have made themselves get out the door are those signed up to events early in the year. Nothing like a race to put the fear of getting out the door in you. Lets hope its dry for their race days. 

We have also had new members take on our Get back running course and they have weekly emails and videos to motivate them out a few times a week, Here is some of their feedback.

The accountability of being signed up to this course has really helped. I really like the approach that success is just getting out the door, and the “permission” to just walk for the first half and then try your best, whatever that looks like, on the second half. There’s been a lot more walking than running, but there’s been more running each session and the approach has made me be much kinder to myself than I would otherwise have been, and thus more likely to keep going instead of beating myself up about being slow.  Jenny 

I would absolutely 100% recommend this course for anyone struggling to get back in to running. Mary’s guidance and encouragement really pushed me to get out there.  I loved the weekly videos, they were so encouraging and full of advice for everyone no matter how slow you go, and I always felt like I was making progress.

Linda

A Winning Combination 

While it has been lovely to read some of the feedback that we have received on our online programmes to date, most of it has been from individuals rather than groups. Discipline takes you so far, but long term accountability is the next level. So finding a running buddy who you dont want to let down can be the key to keeping it all going if you don't trust your own discipline of a wet evening! 

Partner in Crime 

Not everyone has the luxury of a group to support their running. If you are keen to get running regularly but know you won’t keep it up on your own, look around for someone else who may have the same goal. Ask them to meet you for a run, or maybe even a walk to start. It only takes two of you to start a group. You don’t even need to be a running expert. Feel free to follow any of our online plans which will give you the knowledge and step by step guide to getting started. 

Who could you text ? 

All you need is some enthusiasm and a joint commitment to keep eachother on track. After that, the magic happens and who knows where it might take you. We have 3 full months now until the summer madness kicks in and running buddies will be harder to pin down. If you fear the next 3 months may slip by as quick as the last 3 then pick up your phone now and send that first text asking for a running date. Who knows where it might lead over the next few months.  

You can see all of our online courses here, the only question is which one will you choose?