How Do You Stay Motivated?

One of our Myspace friend's is training for a half marathon and was asking about motivation. How do you get/stay motivated? Here are a few things I am doing to stay motivated while training for the Women's Nike Half.

Use a Mantra: For me, this time around, I pick a question or decision that I am really struggling with and I save the deliberating for my run. It pumps me up to know that I am heading out to work on something that I haven't been able to wrap my mind around...without any other distractions!

Reward Yourself: I pre-rewarded myself for this marathon with a iPod Nano and the Nike+ Sport Kit. I am such a frugal cat, so every time I think about not wanting to run or putting it off, I remind myself how much money I spent...it gets me going every time! Find out how to reward yourself for reaching goals.

Some is Something: If I know getting a long run in the evening will be a cricus or impossible, I opt in for the 2 miles I know I can get in the morning. Doing something is better than nothing and we all know how much better we feel when we accomplish!!

Give it A Pinch!: I give a lil pinch to my tummy or butt or thigh and think about how I am taking care of my body if I get out a run. Being healthy and active now is the best choice for my future.

Get Others Involved: While I am a lone runner, I certainly like to get other women out running and if they need me for motivation then I have all the more desire to get out there and get it done!

Ease Up on You: I am juggling so much this week, including a move (which we all know is huge) of which I am counting in as some major physical activity...running will commence on Saturday when all is said and done. If you need a break, take it, just promise yourself to get back in...I bet you will miss it anyway :)

Give Yourself Big Goals: There are tons of races happening all of the time and usually they are inexpensive...so search for one in your area, whether it be a 5k/10k, Half, or full and sign up with a realistic training time. Working toward goals helps you stay on track. Tell a girlfriend to sign up that way you have someone else counting on you making it prepared to race day :)

LoVE iT: Love what you do, have fun doing it. Running works magic in your life through so many veins. Love it and it will love you <3.

*Image: Sophie Woolley, Author of When to Run (one of our Myspace frineds!)

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