Pushups, Pasta, & Pinot Grigio

In honor of my half marathon coming up on Sunday, I thought I’d share some of my favorite Running Tips with you all.

I found this article on PopSugar for Becoming a Better Runner. These are all great, but the words of wisdom that really speak to me are:

• Keep it consistent – Boy, it is so much easier to stay in your running routine than to stop and start training all over again. #nothanks
• Fuel right – I don’t do this as well as I should. I usually eat before long runs, but I sometimes forget when I’m doing shorter workouts. I also don’t spend a lot of time thinking about what to eat before and after a workout, something I’m trying to get better at doing! Check out this site, which lists some yummy pre- and post-workout snacks.
• Do more than run – Getting enough sleep, I have that covered. Stretching, oops I definitely need to improve on this. This year I have gotten better with incorporating strength training in my weekly workouts, and you know what? I think it makes a difference on those long runs!

Running Motivations. This article on Bustle has additional workout tips around motivating yourself to get out there and do it!

• Sign up for a race you’ve always wanted to do – I find if I am just running to run, I’ll do it, but I won’t really push myself as much as I should or could. If I have a race coming up, I’ll be much more into lacing up my running shoes on days I don’t really feel like it.
• Listen to your body – sometimes you need that rest day or two! I usually have no problem giving these to myself, but just know that after those days, you’re going to get right back at it.
• Discover new running routes – not only does a fresh route give you something new to look at (in my case, cows), but I find that the miles go quicker because I’m not waiting for that spot when I hit mile 5, 7, 8, etc.

• Set a PR – the truth is, I’m not running the half marathon this weekend to break any personal records. I’m doing it for me, to finish at a comfortable pace and feel good during and after. However, I have pushed myself harder in previous races and there is nothing like that thrill as you tick off the miles and cross that finish line faster than you ever have before. That is a serious confidence booster!

And this is a big one for me. If I’m in my workout clothes, I might as well do something besides sit on the couch!

On long run days, I like to plan something fun that I can look forward to afterwards. Whether it be brunch, plans with friends, shopping for something I’m really excited about – it doesn’t matter what it is, but knowing there’s something fun waiting for me after the run really helps push me!

How About You?

What are some of your workout motivation tips and tricks?