Since I’ve started to run, I’ve hit a couple of running slumps. Actually, I’m currently in one right now. In fact, I don’t think I’ve run for at least a full week and a half. There are so many reasons why you hit a running slump, and sometimes, you don’t even know the reason. It kind of just hits you. If you’re in the same situation or just want some advice on how to start running again, this is for you! (and me)
Give Yourself Grace
I’ve mentioned this in a previous blog, but it is so important to give yourself grace, especially with fitness. It’s easy to beat yourself up about not sticking to a routine that you were doing, and that often leads to guilt and shame. It can bring you into an unhealthy state of mind and a negative relationship with fitness. Give yourself grace to mess up. When I’m in a slump, my first thoughts are “Why can’t I pull myself out of this?”
Instead of this line of thinking, I need to remember that I am not perfect. I am not going to follow my routine perfectly. This slump might honestly be a blessing in disguise. It allows me to rest and take a little break. No matter how you think about it, it’s much more productive to start with a positive inner dialogue. Approach this time with grace for yourself. Feeling guilty only results in discouragement. Grace, on the other hand, leaves room for improvement and motivation.
Try A New Spot
Sometimes, a running slump can come from being bored of the same route. If you’re constantly running at the same spot or running the same distance, it might be easier to quit or feel like you’re not improving. Trying a whole new place entirely could be the way out of your slump. Find a new park to walk in or explore a part of your city or town that you haven’t yet.
Start by just getting outside and getting fresh air. Don’t put pressure on yourself to run. The hardest part is getting yourself out there, so start small! Once you get out in nature more, you might be more motivated to start running again. I know for me, part of the joy of running is feeling alive and just being outside. So, if I can at least be out in the fresh air, I already feel like I’m making progress.
Take Time for Other Hobbies
Another way to get out is to take time for something else entirely. Rather than feeling bad about yourself, use the slump to your advantage. Go shopping with friends, cook something new, watch your favorite movie, etc. Do something else that brings you joy. Again, the worst thing about being in a slump is feeling guilty and feeling like a failure. Use this time to do something productive, even if it isn’t related to running or fitness at all. It’s important to keep your morale high by continuing to do things you love. You can be productive in so many other ways, and when you show yourself you can make progress in those things, you can prove to yourself you can make progress in running too.
Find a Something to Listen To
When I go on my runs, I like to listen to podcasts. So, one way I plan to get out of my slump is to save a new podcast episode for the next time I run. This way, I have something to look forward to on the run. If you’re like me, this could be a practical way to get you running again. Find whatever podcast you like listening to, and don’t listen to the next episode they release until your next run. This can go for music too. Maybe there’s an new album that’s coming out or just an album you’ve been wanting to listen to. Plan to save it for your next run, and you instantly associate running again with something you’re looking forward to.
Overall, being in a running slump can be hard. You want to get out there and be more active; however, the motivation just isn’t there. I hope these tips help you out, or at least give you some ideas if you are in the same situation that I am. If you have any ideas or tips of your own, fill out the contact form!
