6 Things I've Learned from Running

Running seems so easy, one foot after the other right? Not exactly, I’ve been running for a while now and have learned there’s much more to it; so here are 6 of the things I’ve learned.

1. Starting is always the hardest

The biggest hurdle for anything is always starting, it’s that big obstacle that stands between what you want to achieve and where you actually are. I know when I started running I used an interval training program to work me up to where I wanted to be, and once I found my rhythm it became easier.

2. You need to Push Yourself

The only thing holding you back is your mind; we mentally quit long before our bodies do. One of the ways that helps me get through is setting mini-goals. Taking my main goal and breaking it up, for example today I’m running 8km, while I’m running I may say “okay from here to the next road I’m going to pick up the pace.” Once you complete that goal you’re already closer to your next and/or big goal and feeling good and knowing you can do it again.

What do you when you’re tired and want to go faster?

3. You’ll Learn to Enjoy the Journey

You just finished running, what did you think about? Only 5 more blocks, I’m halfway done, doesn’t matter you got the job done, but did you enjoy it? We tend to solely keep our eyes on the prize but not always value the moments that happen during.

4. Setbacks Happen

Listen to your body always. Things happen whether that is the weather or an injury we need to learn how to manage them. Nothing ever goes as planned just adjust to the effecting factors and what our body needs, then turn our setbacks to moments of growth.

5. Be Patient

When I first started running I was awful, but I knew if I kept with it, it would eventually come and it did. The first few runs may feel rough and exhausting, but keep with it you’ll get to where you want to be. Be happy with small results, start slow and build up over time, just focus on the process.

Do you ever do any visualization when you run?

6. Music Helps

I will never go for a run without music, it instantly boosts my mood, and listening to my favourite up-beat EDM and rap tracks/artists always encourages me to work harder. In an interview with Women’s Running Dr. Costas Karageorghis says music can enrich positive moods of happiness and excitement, with a more positive mindset runners are able to move towards higher levels of performance.

So there you have it! Those are some of the things I’ve learned over time, I find that I can relate these lessons to other parts in my life not only running. What do you think?