A few weeks ago, a reader left this 👇 comment on a post, which caught my eye because her situation sounds similar to my own:
“I am hoping to run a half marathon this year as it is the year I turn forty. I also have a one year old child and a fulltime job so the biggest challenge will be to stay motivated and use the pockets of time I can find to fit training in. It feels daunting and maybe like I won't be able to, for that reason I have shared this goal only with three people, and I guess now in this weeks old comment thread!”
Friends, what are the hurdles you encounter in your life, to get your running (or any other thing you do for your fitness and health) in? How do you get around them? This poster — whose training is going well, I hope! — would love to know your thoughts, as would I. How do you do it? — Terrell
It’s not even February and already I’m longing for scenes like this. (Photo by Pavel S on Unsplash)
2022 was a very difficult running year for me. I totally hit the wall of no motivation. I ran 1/2 in mid-March but after that I averaged 1 run per week. It was very frustrating and there was no definable reason for it. (Except maybe a little fear. I had soiled myself on a short run and found it very hard to get past that)
2023 is looking great so far. I am starting off with shorter runs but started going a little longer this past weekend. (4) I am on pace to do the same 1/2 in March. It is the Heart Mini which supports the AHA.
I have run everyday this year so far. That is the best way for me to stay motivated. I learned lessons from the past when I nearly burnt out on a streak. So I take it easy a lot and only push myself 2-3 days per week, but not in a row.
I’m the person who posted that comment and I’m happy to say my training is going very well four weeks in! Weekday runs incorporate daycare drop off (as I’m mostly solo parenting during the week there’s no other option) and end at work (where luckily there’s a shower). I’m not as fast with the stroller and backpack but the runs get done. I’ve been following the 16 week plan and for today’s long run ran with a local group for the first time, it was great and will be what I continue doing. I’ve been plotting the runs out on my calendar through the next month and am so much looking forward to next week’s long run already. I get a lot of inspiration from this newsletter and the comments.
I’m so, so glad to hear how well it’s going for you -- and especially that you’ve found a group to join on the weekends for your long runs. That will make a BIG difference in sticking with your training, I’m sure -- it always has for me. This is so great to hear!! How are the midweek runs going?
Thank you Terrell! I generally don't really identify as someone who enjoys being a part of groups, but I think the running group will prove me wrong. Midweek runs are going alright, since I've made them part of my commute bailing on them isn't really an option. I have to get to work and daycare anyways, might as well run. It will get trickier once they get longer, but I'll worry about that when the time comes.
Long runs. Scaling them up on smart plans but getting that one long run in per week (and sometimes we have to miss one when life happens) is the one essential.
I knew a man, a local pastor, who only ran three days a week after turning sixty, and at a post-run coffee after a frozen ten miler in January in my Minnesota home town he told me the long run--and it’s effects on the body--was what he most needed to run a good half.
Now in my sixties, I wish I could have perhaps trusted that thought a little more, and left out a few speed workouts done either just before or just after day a long run.
Protect that long run, and revel in the long, slow push which trains our minds, feet, and our will.
My two cents is to stay engaged with friends, running buddies or run groups. This is a good tool for me that keeps me motivated. I trained for a half marathon this past fall and the 3 mile run on Tuesday mornings with my friend kept me going as much as anything. I've consciously made running more social as I've gotten older because it helps with my motivation.
i've been battling achilles for 2 years now. i went from running 5 days a week to almost 0. i'm slowly getting back into it but my hurdle is my drive has waned. i still love running but fear of re-injury makes me not want to run as much. i do sleep in on the weekends more than i used to which is nice, but i miss running with my friends all the time.
I’m really trying to go with the “something is better than nothing” philosophy at the moment! I find it so easy to be all or nothing about training and give up if things don’t go perfectly. So trying to remember it’s better to get out and do something even if it’s not the session on the plan! Takes the pressure off and all those little efforts add up.
I ran a half-marathon this fall, my first since becoming a Dad 3 years ago. It was certainly challenging, but I was able to get through my training pretty smoothly and actually set a PR. It may sound selfish, but I just suggest protecting that time when you first wake up. I had to sneak out of bed many times and miss out on some morning Dad time but it was the only way to get my long runs done. It's super helpful to have a supportive partner (which I'm happy to say I do!)
So many hurdles that get in the way. I think one has to chalk them up as "done", even if it is just a portion, and go on. Ruminating only causes stress and hating yourself for not being better. After all, running is for fun and enjoyment. . . not a contest!
I have an Apple Watch too and I become fascinated by all the data/numbers it generates. I have to stop myself sometimes from going too far down the rabbit hole -- I don't even know what most of them mean!
I agree that the hardest part is blocking out the time for the long runs. I ran a half-marathon right after my son turned one, and if I didn't put the training runs on my calendar for a week or two ahead it was so easy to not do them. I'm training again for a half and I tell both my spouse and son what my long run mileage is going to be on Saturday so they both know that I will be doing it and they don't bother me with a million little things when I'm heading out the door.
I think the biggest hurdle is finding time to do a long run. For me, it's not as hard to find time to do a run that's an hour or less because I can wake up early to do that. But blocking out time to do runs longer than that is challenging
My work schedule makes it possible for me to do it. I work 3-12 hour shifts, so I can do a few runs that are longer than an hour. I also don't have any dependent children anymore. Those of you that work a M-F full time job and/or have children that need your attention, hats off to you if you can fit in long runs. Don't know how you do it.
It’s all about habit. Eventually if you just make yourself do something enough times without really thinking about it, you’ll also find the time & motivation to make it happen, like brushing your teeth.
I’m 4 weeks into Boston marathon prep now & all’s going well. I know I’ll complete the training. I’ll take the energy gels, put in the miles, the interval speed sessions, the protein shakes, the weight training. The only thing I’m scared of is an injury, preventing me from training.
Running is my sanctuary. Not something I dread or try to fit in. If anything it’s the rest of my life that has to accommodate the running.
This resonates with me. :) Running has become my sanctuary as well. I ran my first half-marathon at 39. I got hooked. I found community. Then I prioritized it by planning my runs in advance. Even weeks out. Every Monday, I look at what my long run on Saturday should be, and I make a plan of where with who I could do it. It may include a drive to a trailhead. I think of it as an adventure! Then I make a plan for someone to be with my kids for a few hours so I can meet up with running friends training for the same race(s). Running with others definitely helps with the motivation! During the week I often wake up early to run before my other daily obligations, because getting it done first thing makes sure I get it done.
Thats really inspiring. Ive been running regularly for about 5 years now but ive never taken part in a race other than a 5km Parkrun. I really should do a half marathon or maybe a 10km first.
Most people I know find it difficult to ask for help in accomplishing their dreams/goals. The fact is we are all, in one way or other, dependent upon each other to accomplish most anything. Yes, it takes a village❗️
If you have the courage to run a half marathon you can dig deep enough to ask for help to provide you with the training time. If help is currently scarce, seek it out, barter if you can’t afford it but don’t let your dream die because you did not ask for help. Create a running group for motivation, accountability and support. If you reach out, you will be pleasantly surprised how many good hearted people will respond❗️Trust in your dream and your good intentions. Taking care of yourself by running a half marathon is not a selfish endeavor. It is a blessing. If one has that attitude, everything changes for the better❗️♥️❗️
I don't necessarily have advice for overcoming life's hurdles. But I will contribute two things. First, motivation follows action, not the other way around. If you sit around and wait to be motivated, you won't get out the door many times. Learning to lace 'em up and get out the door when you don't feel like it is a powerful habit, and many more times than not, you'll feel fine after a half-mile or so. And second, don't stress over missing a run on a day when life gets in the way. The body doesn't differentiate between types of stress, so constantly worrying about a day that got too hectic to fit in a run will only make you feel crappy going forward. Accept that things didn't work out today and prepare to get a run in tomorrow.
My rule: something is better than nothing. Even if I can only get out for a lap around the block or a ten-minute run, I can at least check "went for a run" off my list. The continued momentum of just going outside helps sustain me in between longer runs, and keeps me on my feet in busy seasons!
I like that, Rachel! For some reason, I always impose mileage minimums on my runs in my own mind. As in, it's not a "real" run unless I run at least 3 or 4 miles. Why do I do this??? I honestly don't know, but it's a mental habit I need to kick.
2022 was a very difficult running year for me. I totally hit the wall of no motivation. I ran 1/2 in mid-March but after that I averaged 1 run per week. It was very frustrating and there was no definable reason for it. (Except maybe a little fear. I had soiled myself on a short run and found it very hard to get past that)
2023 is looking great so far. I am starting off with shorter runs but started going a little longer this past weekend. (4) I am on pace to do the same 1/2 in March. It is the Heart Mini which supports the AHA.
I have run everyday this year so far. That is the best way for me to stay motivated. I learned lessons from the past when I nearly burnt out on a streak. So I take it easy a lot and only push myself 2-3 days per week, but not in a row.
I’m the person who posted that comment and I’m happy to say my training is going very well four weeks in! Weekday runs incorporate daycare drop off (as I’m mostly solo parenting during the week there’s no other option) and end at work (where luckily there’s a shower). I’m not as fast with the stroller and backpack but the runs get done. I’ve been following the 16 week plan and for today’s long run ran with a local group for the first time, it was great and will be what I continue doing. I’ve been plotting the runs out on my calendar through the next month and am so much looking forward to next week’s long run already. I get a lot of inspiration from this newsletter and the comments.
I’m so, so glad to hear how well it’s going for you -- and especially that you’ve found a group to join on the weekends for your long runs. That will make a BIG difference in sticking with your training, I’m sure -- it always has for me. This is so great to hear!! How are the midweek runs going?
Thank you Terrell! I generally don't really identify as someone who enjoys being a part of groups, but I think the running group will prove me wrong. Midweek runs are going alright, since I've made them part of my commute bailing on them isn't really an option. I have to get to work and daycare anyways, might as well run. It will get trickier once they get longer, but I'll worry about that when the time comes.
Long runs. Scaling them up on smart plans but getting that one long run in per week (and sometimes we have to miss one when life happens) is the one essential.
I knew a man, a local pastor, who only ran three days a week after turning sixty, and at a post-run coffee after a frozen ten miler in January in my Minnesota home town he told me the long run--and it’s effects on the body--was what he most needed to run a good half.
Now in my sixties, I wish I could have perhaps trusted that thought a little more, and left out a few speed workouts done either just before or just after day a long run.
Protect that long run, and revel in the long, slow push which trains our minds, feet, and our will.
My two cents is to stay engaged with friends, running buddies or run groups. This is a good tool for me that keeps me motivated. I trained for a half marathon this past fall and the 3 mile run on Tuesday mornings with my friend kept me going as much as anything. I've consciously made running more social as I've gotten older because it helps with my motivation.
i've been battling achilles for 2 years now. i went from running 5 days a week to almost 0. i'm slowly getting back into it but my hurdle is my drive has waned. i still love running but fear of re-injury makes me not want to run as much. i do sleep in on the weekends more than i used to which is nice, but i miss running with my friends all the time.
Unless it's totally healed, you could injure it again. And when you start back up, be like a turtle... go slow...
I’m really trying to go with the “something is better than nothing” philosophy at the moment! I find it so easy to be all or nothing about training and give up if things don’t go perfectly. So trying to remember it’s better to get out and do something even if it’s not the session on the plan! Takes the pressure off and all those little efforts add up.
Same here! I love that philosophy :)
I ran a half-marathon this fall, my first since becoming a Dad 3 years ago. It was certainly challenging, but I was able to get through my training pretty smoothly and actually set a PR. It may sound selfish, but I just suggest protecting that time when you first wake up. I had to sneak out of bed many times and miss out on some morning Dad time but it was the only way to get my long runs done. It's super helpful to have a supportive partner (which I'm happy to say I do!)
So many hurdles that get in the way. I think one has to chalk them up as "done", even if it is just a portion, and go on. Ruminating only causes stress and hating yourself for not being better. After all, running is for fun and enjoyment. . . not a contest!
Ive bought myself a Smart Watch. I love stats anyway but tracking everything from heart beat to steps is amazing for motivation.
I now have a competition with my wife to see how many steps we can do. (she always wins!)
I have an Apple Watch too and I become fascinated by all the data/numbers it generates. I have to stop myself sometimes from going too far down the rabbit hole -- I don't even know what most of them mean!
Ha yeah! Very true.
I agree that the hardest part is blocking out the time for the long runs. I ran a half-marathon right after my son turned one, and if I didn't put the training runs on my calendar for a week or two ahead it was so easy to not do them. I'm training again for a half and I tell both my spouse and son what my long run mileage is going to be on Saturday so they both know that I will be doing it and they don't bother me with a million little things when I'm heading out the door.
I think the biggest hurdle is finding time to do a long run. For me, it's not as hard to find time to do a run that's an hour or less because I can wake up early to do that. But blocking out time to do runs longer than that is challenging
Completely agree -- for an hour or a little over, I can almost always make that work. It's the multi-hour runs that are tougher to squeeze in.
My work schedule makes it possible for me to do it. I work 3-12 hour shifts, so I can do a few runs that are longer than an hour. I also don't have any dependent children anymore. Those of you that work a M-F full time job and/or have children that need your attention, hats off to you if you can fit in long runs. Don't know how you do it.
It’s all about habit. Eventually if you just make yourself do something enough times without really thinking about it, you’ll also find the time & motivation to make it happen, like brushing your teeth.
I’m 4 weeks into Boston marathon prep now & all’s going well. I know I’ll complete the training. I’ll take the energy gels, put in the miles, the interval speed sessions, the protein shakes, the weight training. The only thing I’m scared of is an injury, preventing me from training.
Running is my sanctuary. Not something I dread or try to fit in. If anything it’s the rest of my life that has to accommodate the running.
Have a great weekend!
This resonates with me. :) Running has become my sanctuary as well. I ran my first half-marathon at 39. I got hooked. I found community. Then I prioritized it by planning my runs in advance. Even weeks out. Every Monday, I look at what my long run on Saturday should be, and I make a plan of where with who I could do it. It may include a drive to a trailhead. I think of it as an adventure! Then I make a plan for someone to be with my kids for a few hours so I can meet up with running friends training for the same race(s). Running with others definitely helps with the motivation! During the week I often wake up early to run before my other daily obligations, because getting it done first thing makes sure I get it done.
Thats really inspiring. Ive been running regularly for about 5 years now but ive never taken part in a race other than a 5km Parkrun. I really should do a half marathon or maybe a 10km first.
Maybe that should be a goal for this year!
Most people I know find it difficult to ask for help in accomplishing their dreams/goals. The fact is we are all, in one way or other, dependent upon each other to accomplish most anything. Yes, it takes a village❗️
If you have the courage to run a half marathon you can dig deep enough to ask for help to provide you with the training time. If help is currently scarce, seek it out, barter if you can’t afford it but don’t let your dream die because you did not ask for help. Create a running group for motivation, accountability and support. If you reach out, you will be pleasantly surprised how many good hearted people will respond❗️Trust in your dream and your good intentions. Taking care of yourself by running a half marathon is not a selfish endeavor. It is a blessing. If one has that attitude, everything changes for the better❗️♥️❗️
Totally right. If you arrange to run with someone you are many times more likely to turn up. For them more than yourself!
You simply dont want to let someone else down!
So ironic, that human beings are less likely to let others down and more likely to let themselves down. Power of reciprocity? Fear of consequences?
🤔
Isn't that true. I was thinking the same thing in a way. . . one trying to help others all the time and forgetting to help #1. . . themselves!
That's excellent, excellent advice, Clark!
I don't necessarily have advice for overcoming life's hurdles. But I will contribute two things. First, motivation follows action, not the other way around. If you sit around and wait to be motivated, you won't get out the door many times. Learning to lace 'em up and get out the door when you don't feel like it is a powerful habit, and many more times than not, you'll feel fine after a half-mile or so. And second, don't stress over missing a run on a day when life gets in the way. The body doesn't differentiate between types of stress, so constantly worrying about a day that got too hectic to fit in a run will only make you feel crappy going forward. Accept that things didn't work out today and prepare to get a run in tomorrow.
My rule: something is better than nothing. Even if I can only get out for a lap around the block or a ten-minute run, I can at least check "went for a run" off my list. The continued momentum of just going outside helps sustain me in between longer runs, and keeps me on my feet in busy seasons!
I agree whole hardily with that. More than once, I've e cut a run short because my head wasn't in the game.
Yes, thats so true. One step leads to another that leads to another.
I like that, Rachel! For some reason, I always impose mileage minimums on my runs in my own mind. As in, it's not a "real" run unless I run at least 3 or 4 miles. Why do I do this??? I honestly don't know, but it's a mental habit I need to kick.
I've noticed the same tendency in myself! I don't know where it comes from, but it's definitely a habit worth breaking 💪