If you lived in the desert and it was typically 100+, you’d think you would be running every minute of everyday that it was in the 60’s. You’d definitely not skip such a beautiful opportunity to actually enjoy great running weather.
Unless you were me.
The Slump
I wish I could say I have been running 10 miles per day now that it has been beautiful in Arizona over the last few weeks. I can’t claim to such though.
For whatever reason, this year, I am in a slump. I can’t get up and get out and such is making me a hypocrite…big time.
Thankfully, the wife dragged me out of bed this morning and got me to do somewhere in the range of 4 miles. It felt great. There was a coolness in the air, the sky was gloomy (a rare and welcome thing in Phoenix), and I the temperature was around the high 40’s. It was a good run and, as usual, I always feel better after a run.
How to Get Out of a Running Slump
Over the last 5 years of my running “career”, I have found myself burnt out on running 5-10 times. Typically, I have the excuse of travel or temperature getting in the way. Like most excuses, they have and still are lame.
Needless to say, I have overcome the slumps and gotten back to (softly) pounding pavement.
The following are just a few ways to get out of your running slump…
- Run with a Friend - Though my wife hates running with me because I am so critical of her running form (p.s. I am not perfect), she still does get me out the door when I don’t want to sometimes. Try to get a friend or relative to commit to a running schedule together and that will keep both of you accountable.
- Pick a Place and Run There - I currently live in the ‘burbs of Phoenix, Arizona so this one kind of sucks right now. There aren’t too many destination spots I want to run. If you live in a cool city or location, pick a place you love to visit and run there. Good places are monuments, parks, architecture, etc.
- Challenge Yourself - Set the mapmyrun app on your iPhone and take off. Want to beat a pace time or cover the most ground in 20 minutes? Then set the app to get you into gear.
- Don’t Challenge Yourself - Sometimes, it is nice to just tell yourself, “Get up, get out and run some!”
If you just get out that damn door and start moving, you will forget how nice your laziness was just a few minutes earlier.
These are just a few of the ideas flowing through my head to get myself you to get out the door.
Good luck! Hope they help.
Thanks for stopping by Run Some! I hope you are enjoying the running advice and experience with the rest of the crew.