Motivation for a lazy runner

[Nutmeg]

I've been both encouraged and humbled
by the recent postings about extreme a.m.
exercising, but I've finally worked up the courage to ask for suggestions on how I can get back into a regular running regimen.

It's been years since I've run regularly, but I really miss it and know that I'd feel all the better for sticking to it and building up some endurance. My long-term dream is to run a marathon, but I'm very far away from even my first 10k. Also, my schedule now feels painfully full and all of my attempts to make it to the gym have not turned into anything regular. I hate getting up early (I often work late and go to bed around midnight and get up around 7:30), and I don't have a reliable exercise partner to buddy up with.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

[donleyk]

I am trying to think of something that will help you. I am to the point where I have a ton of guilt so I don't miss many work outs.

I was thinking, though, if you have Outlook or another kind of electronic calendar, make an appointment on it to meet your marathon runner (you) at the gym. Do you have a childhood nick name? Use that and schedule time with her. Make it a priority and go to the gym... Maybe it will get you in a pattern and you'll see the results you need to continue without the reminder....? Good luck!

[BernK]

I have found that the best motivation is having a goal. Plan a program around a 5k or 10k. Make sure the race is fairly soon and not 12 months away.

[Kerri]

How about this for motivation, because you CAN run! I haven't run for 3 weeks due to a torn muscle and it is just killing me, especially now that the weather is nicer. I sure wish I could have imagined how this felt like before. I would not have complained so much about running 5 miles after work in January. Hopefully, around April I can start again.

I would definately try setting some goals. You want to run a marathon? Do it! However, I would reccommend doing it slowly. My plan for this year was to work up from 6 miles to the 26.2 and after my 2nd injury here, I think I was a little too ambitious. Find a 5K in a month or 2 and register now! That will motivate you. Also, check out www.runnersworld.com. (http://www.runnersworld.com.) They have a section dedicated to beginning runners and training guides.

I know it is hard to make excercising a part of your schedule, and I really don't have any advice besides finding out what works for you. I work out in the evenings and there isn't anything wrong with it. Start out small and as you come to enjoy your workouts, you will find more time for them.

Don't forget to warm up properly and stretch well!

[Nutmeg]

Thanks so much everyone!! I feel more
motivated already. I especially liked the idea of scheduling in a running time with myself. That is the only way anything is going to change the way things are going now.

I also went to the webpage from another message for "From Couch Potato to 5K" and found some great tips and upcoming races in my area.

Thanks again, I really appreciated your responses.

[SusieO]

Welcome, mpuskar! It's always nice to have another runner around on the BB. I'd like to offer another plug for Runner's World and runnersworld.com. They offer great information for all levels of runners.

Kerri, sorry to hear of your injuries. Hope you feel better soon!