If you’ve been trying to get in a run here and there, you know how difficult it is to stick to a routine. There always seems to be something that gets in the way of your run. Exercising shouldn’t be something that you fit into your schedule if possible. Rather, a regular run should be firmly cemented as a daily event. Let’s take a look at some ways you can turn running into a habit.
Write out an Exercise Schedule
The mere act of writing out your exercise schedule can help you stick to it. Plan out each day of cardio, lifting, stretching and so on. Maintaining a schedule will guarantee you train each part of your body. Establishing a schedule will reinforce your intention to be fit. Assigning particular exercises and styles of runs for each day of the week gives you the missing structure and keeps you focused on fitness.
Begin With Baby Steps
Don’t try to jump into a running schedule of several miles per day. If you are out of shape, start out small. Begin with the walk-run method or go for a quick jog around the block. This way, you’ll keep your confidence high while simultaneously easing your body back into shape.
Make Running Fun
Let’s face it. Running can be a bit boring at times. Do your best to keep it fun and your attempt to turn it into a habit won’t be as challenging. Be sure to stock up on new running gear to keep your spirit up. Run off the beaten path with a new adventure, bring along a camera to take photos and load up your playlist with some running tunes.
Turn Your Scheduled Runs Into Ritual
Habits that are deeply ingrained become ritualistic when performed at the same designated point of each day. You can turn running into a ritual if you establish and stick to a specific time for your runs. A set time also encourages you to follow through with the run.
Consider Running in the Morning
Those who struggle to turn running into a habit often find that it’s much easier to hit the pavement first thing in the morning. For many, it’s difficult to go from a stressful day job directly to an exhausting run. This is why so many people opt to run in the morning. You’ll always have enough energy for a morning run, and it’ll serve as a positive way to start the morning.
Prepare for Your Runs
Do yourself a favor by laying out all of the running gear and apparel the night before your run. It will help you make sure that you have everything you need and make it easier to head quickly out the door.
Don’t Allow Yourself to Skip a Run
Once you’ve decided that running will become your new ritual, it’s imperative that you don’t skip a run. Turning running into a habit becomes much harder with each skipped session. Schedule your runs every other day so you aren’t as tempted to skip a run due to fatigue.
Once you’ve made running a ritual, reward yourself. A charm from our Sunshine Runner Collection is the perfect reward to commemorate all your hard work.