Slow and steady wins the race. And winning the race begins by wanting to win. Bearing this in mind, planning seems to be the inevitable: define objectives, peak shape periods, or simply a daily routine. But which goal to choose? And how to reach it? Far from me to claim the miracle method or THE solution, but here are just a few ideas I find useful to share with you.
1) Why do I run?
This is the essential question. Everyone has its own goal, its own ambition. Whether you run for performance, for keeping in shape or to feel well, all reasons are good provided you are in harmony and true to yourself. Once you know the answer to this question, define a reasonable goal that will help keep you motivated all year long.
2) Why do I plan my training?
Whether short, medium or long term, it is good to set an objective and the directions to stick to it, whichever the hazards and pitfalls encountered. Because yes, a good planning and a well-defined goal is not always an easy ride.
3) How?
With our busy life and manifold activities, adding a sporting goal will certainly require choices and a good daily organization.
There are some tips and tricks that can help you in your organization once you have defined your goal:
– Inform your relatives
Your organization may not necessarily suit people around you. Sometimes we must learn to make concessions but these should not be one-way only. Stepping back is necessary. Your loved ones will more easily accept an upheaval in the daily rhythm if rules are clear and well established for everyone from the start, and if it is for a limited time only.
– Always have your equipment handy
As Superman or wonder woman who change in a jiffy, be responsive and optimize small time slots in your schedule. Do not look for the best time slot, but just be opportunistic. A 40 minute run between 12:00 and 14:00 is better than a two-hour unproductive break. A good workout can largely take place in less than an hour, shower included!
– Set schedules and running appointments
To keep your motivation steady, set appointments with your running buddies. Emulation is sometimes hurtful if you are the weakest of the lot, but using a group dynamic to overcome a small drop in motivation has never hurt morale.
– Anticipate
Waking up 1 hour before the usual time is a good way to have a run without intruding on your day. Prepare your stuff the evening before. Anticipate every little thing not to have to manage logistic on the d-day. Save time on your lunch break or make your lunch boxes become your best allies: time saving, healthy food, in short, the combo of an optimized lunch break…
– Be aware of your progress
Training diaries are not for pros or elite runners only. Keeping your own training diary and track of the small details you feel important, allow you to view your progress.
Of course all of the above advices are far from being exhaustive and running should most of all be a simple pleasure, affordable and your source of pressure relief.
Finally, all these little things to implement, have a single goal: refuel endorphins!
Thomas
More about Thomas: http://www.thomas-lorblanchet.com/fr/