Maintain a Running Log
Maintaining a running log is the best motivation factor for runner. Simply because, you tend to note details like time, date and experiences during and after you completed your running for the day. This really provides an ample record for you and help in keeping track of your performance. If the performance has really improved over a period of time, you will be motivated to set up higher goals. If it hasn’t, it will remind you of the loose ends in your running schedules and gives a good understanding about your deficiencies. So, it is good for you both ways.
Set Realistic Goals
Setting realistic goals goes a long way in nurturing and enhancing the habit of running. Select a race. It may be a marathon or a 10k run or even a 5k run. Aim to participate in it. Practice, keeping it in mind. This motivates you enough to stay on track. Make it a point to participate in short distance running races. This is the best motivating factor for a runner to stay focussed all the time and never loose interest in running.
Peer Support is a great motivating factor
Expert coaches advice that fitness friends make a qualitative difference to your running outcome. As far as possible avoid running alone. Always run with a friend or a family member. The very feeling that someone out there is waiting for you, motivates you to proceed with your running schedule. Involve yourself in friendly chats. Also, having small friendly races encourages healthy competition and goes a long way in pepping up your interest in running.
Vary Routes
If you have time, choose a place or take a round about route with lesser population density and more open space. This, not only rejuvenates you but also enhances your performance in the long run. Ensure that you inform somebody about the changing of the route if you are running alone.
Cross Training Keeps up your Interest in Running
Taking some time off for Cross training (a physical exercise different from running) helps you a great deal in staying on course. Once in a while taking an off, say a week for every two month period will help in keeping your interest intact. During this period ride a bike or go for swimming. This is the best method for retaining your interest in running. Remember, running is too valuable an exercise for you to give a miss to it.
