Fall Back in Love with Running
This is a bit of a confusing title and one that hopefully made you think “I wonder what Rob is talking about this time?” I’ve had a lot of conversations with people that have fallen out of love with running and they often give reasons that aren’t actually reasons at all.
Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Common Reasons Why People Quit Running
Information Overload
“I’ve become a slave to the data, I can’t just go out and run like I used to!”
If you suddenly feel like every run has to be a PB then delete Strava from your phone or leave your smart watch at home. It’s really a quite simple fix!
Lack of Improvement
“I’ve stopped enjoying it because everyone is getting better but not me.”
They’re probably not and you should only really care what you’re doing. Better yet, why not just talk to them and ask them what they’re up to? Variety is the spice of life.
It’s Boring
“Running has become so boring and I just don’t get excited by it anymore.”
You’re doing it wrong then, maybe choose a new route? Choose a run that excites and or scares you.
Successfully Achieving Goals
“What’s the point? I’ve already done my marathon now.”
That’s great – why stop there? If you don’t want to do another one that’s fine but if you enjoyed the process, you can still keep running.
Me, Myself and I
“I get so lonely on my runs.”
Sometimes being alone is peaceful, though if it’s not for you then find a group to run with. If you live somewhere with good reception, why not give a friend or family member a call? Sometimes I’ll chat to myself!
Doctors Orders
“I suffer from asthma and the doc says I shouldn’t do it.”
Doctors said the same thing to Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Chris Froome… don’t recognize the names? Have a google.
Money
“All the kit is so expensive!”
Then don’t buy expensive kit, get what you can afford.
Injuries
“I keep getting injured.”
Running isn’t to blame – any movement can cause injury. Mismanaged running causes injuries, not running itself. With a little care given to how often you run, making sure you have the right technique and some strength training, the worst you should ever suffer is a sprained ankle or the occasional blister.
A very wise doctor once told me that they’d rather treat a soft tissue injury as opposed to a lifelong case of type 2 diabetes!
Final Thoughts
This is a little tongue and cheek and also a little bit obvious in terms of the answers. The point I’m trying to get across is running can be intimidating, lonely and sometimes expensive – but it doesn’t have to be.
You define what running means to you and also what you want to get out of it. When you learn to run your own way, to your own rules – there’s nothing else quite like it.
Fun - Honesty - SIMPLICITY - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - Hard Work
ENGINE
8 min AMRAPS with some different dance moves for Engine this week!
GYMNASTICS
We will go upside down again, but this time with HSPU, followed by pull-up progressions. We will finish with some strength work.
HYROX
This week, we hit Half a Hyrox broken down into intervals, with rest!
MOBILITY
Mobility is Back! We will improve on the positions we need fixing from end-of-year testing. Simple hip & ankle mobility & glute stability/activation were big. With overhead stability being much needed, we will start to focus on this.
PURE STRENGTH
On Monday in Pure Strength, we have banded deadlifts and some Bulgarian split squats. On Wednesday, we hit the banded bench press and progress the loading on this and the banded row.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week in Weightlifting we are focused on the Hang Snatch, with some snatch balance, a Heavy Snatch complex and some Pulls.
Monday Ride
A skills and fitness based ride at the BikeDXB track in Dubai. Some simply structured intervals to enhance cycling ability.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Bike DXB
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Wednesday - Brick Session
A brick session consisting of 60mins of cycling with 20 - 30mins of running. Great for all levels of triathlete.
Start time: 05:59 am
Location : BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. This run is currently gearing run fitness towards the incoming half marathons. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Saturday long ride is usually 100km long or around 3 - 3.5hrs. It's a ride catered for moderate to advanced cyclists. Please reach out to rf@innerfight.com if you have any questions.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location : BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Sunday - DCS Half Marathon
Monday
Time: 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Mobility and Tempo
AM Session:
Please note there is no Morning session this week.
PM Session: This evening we will have our Tempo Run, which will be 8 mins at 7/10 and 3 mins recovery.
x3. Aim to keep a 7/10 effort on each block of work.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. The session today will be 800m repeats that build in pace.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
If you didn't run track, today we have some speed work for you. The session is 100m efforts through the park with a 300m recovery.
Friday
Brief time: 5:54am
Start Time: 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will be looking to dial into
2mins @ 8RPE, followed 9mins @ 6RPE. Repeating the sequence 3x gives you plenty of opportunity to find your rhythm.
Sunday
Time: 06:00
Session: Dubai Creek
Location: TBC
This week we will be at the DCS 10km and half marathon race. Warm-up location and details will be shared in WhatsApp.
This week at Innerfight, we start working on those overhead squat positions, followed by lunging and rowing in the workout.
On Tuesday, we have some clean and jerk barbell cycling, a pair of short, sharp, classic CrossFit-style workouts, and then some assault
bike intervals. We are back squatting heavily on Wednesday before some tough single leg in the workout. Thursday, we have a nice
gymnastics skill session followed by a partner workout, and on Friday, we finish the week with a Long Therapy WOD!
Monday:
Strength:
Over Head Squats
Conditioning:
Every 4 mins x 5 Complete
10 DB Overhead Alt Reverse Lunges (50/35)
20/15 cal Row
10 DB Overhead Alt Reverse Lunges (50/35)
Tuesday:
Strength:
Complex Power Clean + Push Press + Push Jerk
Conditioning:
15-12-9
Chest to Bar
Power Clean (60/40)
rest 3 mins
21-15-9
Pull Ups
Push Press (45/35kg)
Wednesday:
Strength:
Back Squat
Conditioning:
In a 4 Minute Window with 2mins rest x 4
1 Lap Car Park KB Farmers Carry
10 KB Box Stepovers
15 Burpee to Target
AMRAP
Goblet Squats
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Double Unders
B) Toes to Bar
C) Russian KB Swings
Conditioning:
21 min AMRAP with a Partner
6 Wall walks
30 Deadlift (60/40)
30 Cal Ass bike
30 Cal Ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Ring Rows
B) Wall Balls + Goblet Wall Sit
Conditioning:
30min AMRAP - 4 movements that when put together make an epic workout!
This is a bit of a confusing title and one that hopefully made you think “I wonder what Rob is talking about this time?” I’ve had a lot of conversations with people that have fallen out of love with running and they often give reasons that aren’t actually reasons at all.
Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Common Reasons Why People Quit Running
Information Overload
“I’ve become a slave to the data, I can’t just go out and run like I used to!”
If you suddenly feel like every run has to be a PB then delete Strava from your phone or leave your smart watch at home. It’s really a quite simple fix!
Lack of Improvement
“I’ve stopped enjoying it because everyone is getting better but not me.”
They’re probably not and you should only really care what you’re doing. Better yet, why not just talk to them and ask them what they’re up to? Variety is the spice of life.
It’s Boring
“Running has become so boring and I just don’t get excited by it anymore.”
You’re doing it wrong then, maybe choose a new route? Choose a run that excites and or scares you.
Successfully Achieving Goals
“What’s the point? I’ve already done my marathon now.”
That’s great – why stop there? If you don’t want to do another one that’s fine but if you enjoyed the process, you can still keep running.
Me, Myself and I
“I get so lonely on my runs.”
Sometimes being alone is peaceful, though if it’s not for you then find a group to run with. If you live somewhere with good reception, why not give a friend or family member a call? Sometimes I’ll chat to myself!
Doctors Orders
“I suffer from asthma and the doc says I shouldn’t do it.”
Doctors said the same thing to Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Chris Froome… don’t recognize the names? Have a google.
Money
“All the kit is so expensive!”
Then don’t buy expensive kit, get what you can afford.
Injuries
“I keep getting injured.”
Running isn’t to blame – any movement can cause injury. Mismanaged running causes injuries, not running itself. With a little care given to how often you run, making sure you have the right technique and some strength training, the worst you should ever suffer is a sprained ankle or the occasional blister.
A very wise doctor once told me that they’d rather treat a soft tissue injury as opposed to a lifelong case of type 2 diabetes!
Final Thoughts
This is a little tongue and cheek and also a little bit obvious in terms of the answers. The point I’m trying to get across is running can be intimidating, lonely and sometimes expensive – but it doesn’t have to be.
You define what running means to you and also what you want to get out of it. When you learn to run your own way, to your own rules – there’s nothing else quite like it.
Fun - Honesty - SIMPLICITY - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - Hard Work
Monday Ride
A skills and fitness based ride at the BikeDXB track in Dubai. Some simply structured intervals to enhance cycling ability.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Bike DXB
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Wednesday - Brick Session
A brick session consisting of 60mins of cycling with 20 - 30mins of running. Great for all levels of triathlete.
Start time: 05:59 am
Location : BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. This run is currently gearing run fitness towards the incoming half marathons. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Saturday long ride is usually 100km long or around 3 - 3.5hrs. It's a ride catered for moderate to advanced cyclists. Please reach out to rf@innerfight.com if you have any questions.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location : BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Sunday - DCS Half Marathon
Monday
Time: 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Mobility and Tempo
AM Session:
Please note there is no Morning session this week.
PM Session: This evening we will have our Tempo Run, which will be 8 mins at 7/10 and 3 mins recovery.
x3. Aim to keep a 7/10 effort on each block of work.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. The session today will be 800m repeats that build in pace.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
If you didn't run track, today we have some speed work for you. The session is 100m efforts through the park with a 300m recovery.
Friday
Brief time: 5:54am
Start Time: 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will be looking to dial into
2mins @ 8RPE, followed 9mins @ 6RPE. Repeating the sequence 3x gives you plenty of opportunity to find your rhythm.
Sunday
Time: 06:00
Session: Dubai Creek
Location: TBC
This week we will be at the DCS 10km and half marathon race. Warm-up location and details will be shared in WhatsApp.
This week at Innerfight, we start working on those overhead squat positions, followed by lunging and rowing in the workout.
On Tuesday, we have some clean and jerk barbell cycling, a pair of short, sharp, classic CrossFit-style workouts, and then some assault
bike intervals. We are back squatting heavily on Wednesday before some tough single leg in the workout. Thursday, we have a nice
gymnastics skill session followed by a partner workout, and on Friday, we finish the week with a Long Therapy WOD!
Monday:
Strength:
Over Head Squats
Conditioning:
Every 4 mins x 5 Complete
10 DB Overhead Alt Reverse Lunges (50/35)
20/15 cal Row
10 DB Overhead Alt Reverse Lunges (50/35)
Tuesday:
Strength:
Complex Power Clean + Push Press + Push Jerk
Conditioning:
15-12-9
Chest to Bar
Power Clean (60/40)
rest 3 mins
21-15-9
Pull Ups
Push Press (45/35kg)
Wednesday:
Strength:
Back Squat
Conditioning:
In a 4 Minute Window with 2mins rest x 4
1 Lap Car Park KB Farmers Carry
10 KB Box Stepovers
15 Burpee to Target
AMRAP
Goblet Squats
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Double Unders
B) Toes to Bar
C) Russian KB Swings
Conditioning:
21 min AMRAP with a Partner
6 Wall walks
30 Deadlift (60/40)
30 Cal Ass bike
30 Cal Ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Ring Rows
B) Wall Balls + Goblet Wall Sit
Conditioning:
30min AMRAP - 4 movements that when put together make an epic workout!
ENGINE
8 min AMRAPS with some different dance moves for Engine this week!
GYMNASTICS
We will go upside down again, but this time with HSPU, followed by pull-up progressions. We will finish with some strength work.
HYROX
This week, we hit Half a Hyrox broken down into intervals, with rest!
MOBILITY
Mobility is Back! We will improve on the positions we need fixing from end-of-year testing. Simple hip & ankle mobility & glute stability/activation were big. With overhead stability being much needed, we will start to focus on this.
PURE STRENGTH
On Monday in Pure Strength, we have banded deadlifts and some Bulgarian split squats. On Wednesday, we hit the banded bench press and progress the loading on this and the banded row.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week in Weightlifting we are focused on the Hang Snatch, with some snatch balance, a Heavy Snatch complex and some Pulls.
This is a bit of a confusing title and one that hopefully made you think “I wonder what Rob is talking about this time?” I’ve had a lot of conversations with people that have fallen out of love with running and they often give reasons that aren’t actually reasons at all.
Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Common Reasons Why People Quit Running
Information Overload
“I’ve become a slave to the data, I can’t just go out and run like I used to!”
If you suddenly feel like every run has to be a PB then delete Strava from your phone or leave your smart watch at home. It’s really a quite simple fix!
Lack of Improvement
“I’ve stopped enjoying it because everyone is getting better but not me.”
They’re probably not and you should only really care what you’re doing. Better yet, why not just talk to them and ask them what they’re up to? Variety is the spice of life.
It’s Boring
“Running has become so boring and I just don’t get excited by it anymore.”
You’re doing it wrong then, maybe choose a new route? Choose a run that excites and or scares you.
Successfully Achieving Goals
“What’s the point? I’ve already done my marathon now.”
That’s great – why stop there? If you don’t want to do another one that’s fine but if you enjoyed the process, you can still keep running.
Me, Myself and I
“I get so lonely on my runs.”
Sometimes being alone is peaceful, though if it’s not for you then find a group to run with. If you live somewhere with good reception, why not give a friend or family member a call? Sometimes I’ll chat to myself!
Doctors Orders
“I suffer from asthma and the doc says I shouldn’t do it.”
Doctors said the same thing to Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Chris Froome… don’t recognize the names? Have a google.
Money
“All the kit is so expensive!”
Then don’t buy expensive kit, get what you can afford.
Injuries
“I keep getting injured.”
Running isn’t to blame – any movement can cause injury. Mismanaged running causes injuries, not running itself. With a little care given to how often you run, making sure you have the right technique and some strength training, the worst you should ever suffer is a sprained ankle or the occasional blister.
A very wise doctor once told me that they’d rather treat a soft tissue injury as opposed to a lifelong case of type 2 diabetes!
Final Thoughts
This is a little tongue and cheek and also a little bit obvious in terms of the answers. The point I’m trying to get across is running can be intimidating, lonely and sometimes expensive – but it doesn’t have to be.
You define what running means to you and also what you want to get out of it. When you learn to run your own way, to your own rules – there’s nothing else quite like it.
Fun - Honesty - SIMPLICITY - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - Hard Work
Monday
Time: 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Mobility and Tempo
AM Session:
Please note there is no Morning session this week.
PM Session: This evening we will have our Tempo Run, which will be 8 mins at 7/10 and 3 mins recovery.
x3. Aim to keep a 7/10 effort on each block of work.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. The session today will be 800m repeats that build in pace.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
If you didn't run track, today we have some speed work for you. The session is 100m efforts through the park with a 300m recovery.
Friday
Brief time: 5:54am
Start Time: 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will be looking to dial into
2mins @ 8RPE, followed 9mins @ 6RPE. Repeating the sequence 3x gives you plenty of opportunity to find your rhythm.
Sunday
Time: 06:00
Session: Dubai Creek
Location: TBC
This week we will be at the DCS 10km and half marathon race. Warm-up location and details will be shared in WhatsApp.
This week at Innerfight, we start working on those overhead squat positions, followed by lunging and rowing in the workout.
On Tuesday, we have some clean and jerk barbell cycling, a pair of short, sharp, classic CrossFit-style workouts, and then some assault
bike intervals. We are back squatting heavily on Wednesday before some tough single leg in the workout. Thursday, we have a nice
gymnastics skill session followed by a partner workout, and on Friday, we finish the week with a Long Therapy WOD!
Monday:
Strength:
Over Head Squats
Conditioning:
Every 4 mins x 5 Complete
10 DB Overhead Alt Reverse Lunges (50/35)
20/15 cal Row
10 DB Overhead Alt Reverse Lunges (50/35)
Tuesday:
Strength:
Complex Power Clean + Push Press + Push Jerk
Conditioning:
15-12-9
Chest to Bar
Power Clean (60/40)
rest 3 mins
21-15-9
Pull Ups
Push Press (45/35kg)
Wednesday:
Strength:
Back Squat
Conditioning:
In a 4 Minute Window with 2mins rest x 4
1 Lap Car Park KB Farmers Carry
10 KB Box Stepovers
15 Burpee to Target
AMRAP
Goblet Squats
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Double Unders
B) Toes to Bar
C) Russian KB Swings
Conditioning:
21 min AMRAP with a Partner
6 Wall walks
30 Deadlift (60/40)
30 Cal Ass bike
30 Cal Ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Ring Rows
B) Wall Balls + Goblet Wall Sit
Conditioning:
30min AMRAP - 4 movements that when put together make an epic workout!
ENGINE
8 min AMRAPS with some different dance moves for Engine this week!
GYMNASTICS
We will go upside down again, but this time with HSPU, followed by pull-up progressions. We will finish with some strength work.
HYROX
This week, we hit Half a Hyrox broken down into intervals, with rest!
MOBILITY
Mobility is Back! We will improve on the positions we need fixing from end-of-year testing. Simple hip & ankle mobility & glute stability/activation were big. With overhead stability being much needed, we will start to focus on this.
PURE STRENGTH
On Monday in Pure Strength, we have banded deadlifts and some Bulgarian split squats. On Wednesday, we hit the banded bench press and progress the loading on this and the banded row.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week in Weightlifting we are focused on the Hang Snatch, with some snatch balance, a Heavy Snatch complex and some Pulls.
Monday Ride
A skills and fitness based ride at the BikeDXB track in Dubai. Some simply structured intervals to enhance cycling ability.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Bike DXB
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Wednesday - Brick Session
A brick session consisting of 60mins of cycling with 20 - 30mins of running. Great for all levels of triathlete.
Start time: 05:59 am
Location : BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. This run is currently gearing run fitness towards the incoming half marathons. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Saturday long ride is usually 100km long or around 3 - 3.5hrs. It's a ride catered for moderate to advanced cyclists. Please reach out to rf@innerfight.com if you have any questions.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location : BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Sunday - DCS Half Marathon
This is a bit of a confusing title and one that hopefully made you think “I wonder what Rob is talking about this time?” I’ve had a lot of conversations with people that have fallen out of love with running and they often give reasons that aren’t actually reasons at all.
Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Common Reasons Why People Quit Running
Information Overload
“I’ve become a slave to the data, I can’t just go out and run like I used to!”
If you suddenly feel like every run has to be a PB then delete Strava from your phone or leave your smart watch at home. It’s really a quite simple fix!
Lack of Improvement
“I’ve stopped enjoying it because everyone is getting better but not me.”
They’re probably not and you should only really care what you’re doing. Better yet, why not just talk to them and ask them what they’re up to? Variety is the spice of life.
It’s Boring
“Running has become so boring and I just don’t get excited by it anymore.”
You’re doing it wrong then, maybe choose a new route? Choose a run that excites and or scares you.
Successfully Achieving Goals
“What’s the point? I’ve already done my marathon now.”
That’s great – why stop there? If you don’t want to do another one that’s fine but if you enjoyed the process, you can still keep running.
Me, Myself and I
“I get so lonely on my runs.”
Sometimes being alone is peaceful, though if it’s not for you then find a group to run with. If you live somewhere with good reception, why not give a friend or family member a call? Sometimes I’ll chat to myself!
Doctors Orders
“I suffer from asthma and the doc says I shouldn’t do it.”
Doctors said the same thing to Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Chris Froome… don’t recognize the names? Have a google.
Money
“All the kit is so expensive!”
Then don’t buy expensive kit, get what you can afford.
Injuries
“I keep getting injured.”
Running isn’t to blame – any movement can cause injury. Mismanaged running causes injuries, not running itself. With a little care given to how often you run, making sure you have the right technique and some strength training, the worst you should ever suffer is a sprained ankle or the occasional blister.
A very wise doctor once told me that they’d rather treat a soft tissue injury as opposed to a lifelong case of type 2 diabetes!
Final Thoughts
This is a little tongue and cheek and also a little bit obvious in terms of the answers. The point I’m trying to get across is running can be intimidating, lonely and sometimes expensive – but it doesn’t have to be.
You define what running means to you and also what you want to get out of it. When you learn to run your own way, to your own rules – there’s nothing else quite like it.
Fun - Honesty - SIMPLICITY - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - Hard Work
This is a bit of a confusing title and one that hopefully made you think “I wonder what Rob is talking about this time?” I’ve had a lot of conversations with people that have fallen out of love with running and they often give reasons that aren’t actually reasons at all.
Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Common Reasons Why People Quit Running
Information Overload
“I’ve become a slave to the data, I can’t just go out and run like I used to!”
If you suddenly feel like every run has to be a PB then delete Strava from your phone or leave your smart watch at home. It’s really a quite simple fix!
Lack of Improvement
“I’ve stopped enjoying it because everyone is getting better but not me.”
They’re probably not and you should only really care what you’re doing. Better yet, why not just talk to them and ask them what they’re up to? Variety is the spice of life.
It’s Boring
“Running has become so boring and I just don’t get excited by it anymore.”
You’re doing it wrong then, maybe choose a new route? Choose a run that excites and or scares you.
Successfully Achieving Goals
“What’s the point? I’ve already done my marathon now.”
That’s great – why stop there? If you don’t want to do another one that’s fine but if you enjoyed the process, you can still keep running.
Me, Myself and I
“I get so lonely on my runs.”
Sometimes being alone is peaceful, though if it’s not for you then find a group to run with. If you live somewhere with good reception, why not give a friend or family member a call? Sometimes I’ll chat to myself!
Doctors Orders
“I suffer from asthma and the doc says I shouldn’t do it.”
Doctors said the same thing to Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Chris Froome… don’t recognize the names? Have a google.
Money
“All the kit is so expensive!”
Then don’t buy expensive kit, get what you can afford.
Injuries
“I keep getting injured.”
Running isn’t to blame – any movement can cause injury. Mismanaged running causes injuries, not running itself. With a little care given to how often you run, making sure you have the right technique and some strength training, the worst you should ever suffer is a sprained ankle or the occasional blister.
A very wise doctor once told me that they’d rather treat a soft tissue injury as opposed to a lifelong case of type 2 diabetes!
Final Thoughts
This is a little tongue and cheek and also a little bit obvious in terms of the answers. The point I’m trying to get across is running can be intimidating, lonely and sometimes expensive – but it doesn’t have to be.
You define what running means to you and also what you want to get out of it. When you learn to run your own way, to your own rules – there’s nothing else quite like it.
Fun - Honesty - SIMPLICITY - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - Hard Work