staying focused when running

[sherri]

This is for all you runners out there.
How do you prevent your mind from obessesing (when you are running) about how you don't feel like running/are tired. I run about five miles/day but sometimes I just find myself having trouble staying focused. I sometimes try to take in the scenery but it is not always the best (in Dallas). Any suggestions?

[emilycat]

Sherri,

Hey! Truthfully, my runs are virtually the only times of day I'm not obsessing (another topic http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif ). I run in the morning, and it's such a peaceful time for me that I rarely stress about how I don't want to be out there. If I do, though, I just remind myself that this is the only real "me-time" I'll have all day, and that I should enjoy it for all it's worth. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif I take the opportunity to think about whatever subject my mind roams to, daydreaming to my heart's content http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Hang in there!

[This message has been edited by emilycat (edited 05-26-2001).]

[Alisa]

I sympathize Sherri - I feel this way about every exercise I've ever tried. I'd love to be in better shape but I just find it so boring. How's that for a bleak outlook? When I'm at the gym I play all kinds of mental games (even the old "think of an animal for every letter of the alphabet"). Someday I'd love to find a sport or exercise that I can enjoy for itself instead of a chore.
I don't know if this helps any, but don't feel like you're alone anyway!

[SusanMac]

I've got to have a song in my head. I often wear a Walkman and offer to sing for DH(who doesn't wear one)... he never takes me up on it, but I'll sing anyway if no one else is around :-)

Sometimes I'll have a few key words in my head and chant along to either my footsteps or each breath(is that weird?). I read about it in Yoga Journal, I think, and it works. Pick words like "health," "energy" or whatever positive words work for you (size 6?? margarita??)

[Mbart]

I always run with a walkman, too. I know some runners don't enjoy this, but for me, it gives me so much more energy. In fact, I run in a rather hilly neighborhood, and I will search around for a great song to get me up the bigger hills! Also, I sometimes tune in to Christian radio, as the sermons from my church are often rebroadcast...our pastors are wonderful speakers, and I'm usually so engaged in their topic, that a half hour can zip by. If you're not into Christian programming, maybe you can find another talk radio you like - sports, National Public Radio, or wouldn't it be great to find one on cooking! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Anything to help take your mind off of the run on those tough days.

One more thing...if you are literally running every single day, maybe you just need a change of workout (biking, hiking, etc.) or a day off occasionally, to recharge. Or maybe a running partner for some of the days. I recently started running with someone 2-3 of my 6 days/week, and altho I was reluctant to do this at first, I know look forward to those days! The pace is slower, so I force my body to have easier days, and it's nice to have someone to talk to. Plus, I feel much stronger on my "solo" days.

Hope this helps...let us know what you try!

[Kerri]

I really let my mind wander. There are certain topics that I think about that just makes the time fly. I don't run with a walkman, but I often have a song in my head which also helps.

I also live in Dallas, and get tired of running with the traffic rather than trees. Check out www.cccd.org (http://www.cccd.org) for parks and paths. Good luck!

Kerri

[JGMotiv]

Sherri,

Perhaps you could have a list of things to think about when you run. Pick a new one each day. Examples could be:

a book you're reading
a movive you saw
your to do list
a wish list for your life
what you're going to do during the day
a story you make up as you run

Hope this helps!

JGMotiv
http://www.motivation123.com

[sherri]

Hi everyone
Thanks for you good advice!
I have found that running in the morning works much better for me too.
I have some great ideas to keep my mind focused when I am feeling tired.
Actually, I shouldnt complain that much about scenary, I do run in neighborhood that has a lot of trees, flowers, etc.
My husband and I are moving to Atlanta (Virgnia Highland) next month, so I know I will get even better scenery.

[Kerri]

AAGGH!! No fair! My husband and I are here for another 3-5 years before we can move back to the southeast. And you are getting out before the summer hits. I am really jealous!