Training & Motivation Tips
Never let working out become dull and stale. Keep it interesting by setting small goals for yourself like shaving off a few seconds from your average running time, changing up what you do each day for exercise, and where you exercise. Some days I’m in the gym, some days in my neighborhood, some days on the rail trail or the running track, and some days running a 5K or a 10K. Change up the kind of exercise you do each day. Some days you run, others use weights, others do aerobic classes or use aerobic equipment. Never let working out become dull and stale. Use your imagination and have fun with it.
May of this year I ran my first race since the Princess Half Marathon in February. It was only a 5k but I PR’d at 38 minutes, and my 1st mile was in 11 minutes. I’ve come a long way since my first race last year in August. I have many more minutes I’d like to shave off my time, but patience and perseverance will get me to my goal. I have added more outdoor runs in my training. I have been running around my neighborhood instead of running on the treadmill and I think this really helped me pick up my pace.
The Magic of Mantras ~ The Sanskrit word "mantra" literally means "instrument for thinking." So what makes a good mantra? One that's short, positive, instructive, and full of action words. It doesn’t matter if the words are spoken out loud or said only in your head, these words or phrases can have a powerful effect in giving you that extra push you need to keep going. When running gets its toughest, relying on a running mantra, or a few simple words or phrases, can have a huge effect on how you perform mentally. If you don't have your own running mantra, or you're looking for a new one, try one of these the next time you hit a rough patch during one of your runs. “Strong Legs…Strong Legs” -This is my personal mantra that keeps me going during my runs. “Let it go.”- This one is cool because it can also reminds you to let all of those negative thoughts your thinking and maybe pain your feeling go away. And for those Disney fans you can always sing this mantra, instead of just repeating it in your head. This song is actually on my run list.
Training & Group Fitness
Strength training is an important part of a runner’s routine if you want to become a better runner. You should incorporate low weight training with body weight exercise, like pushups and light to moderate weight lifting a few times a week. I really enjoy my (Full Body Workout) I get in Kettle Bell class I go to every Tuesday's and Thursday's at the gym.
Yoga is great for runners and also great strength and balance training. Besides yoga being a great workout, it also possesses secret restorative powers. It includes postures that aid in speedy recoveries from long runs, which is the key to becoming a healthier and faster competitor. Certain poses offer particular benefits to runners.
Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) stretches the back and the back of the legs, as well as the shoulder and intercostal muscles, and strengthens the abdominals and arms.
Running Clubs
I love My Fitness World Run Club! There is always someone from the run club at every running event to cheer you on and give you that well needed high five or extra cheer of encouragement during the race. Running with a group gives me accountability and that motivation I might need to go that extra mile. Others can inspire you to open up your mind to try new races, distance running or even new workouts.
