Quick Tips to Make Those Early Morning Runs a Reality

By Sandy Schroeder

Are you one of the lucky early morning runners who can actually function before the sun comes up and run? Or are you usually up early but would welcome a little push to be out there running?

Alison Feller on wellandgood.com suggests motivating yourself.

Consider yourself lucky - Instead of muttering that you have to run when the alarm goes off, realize you get to do this. You have the time, body skills, and energy to pull this off. Not everybody does.

Shift into high gear - Don’t just listen to the alarm. Turn it off and jump out of bed and climb into your gear. Grin a little if you like. You can be smug because you will be out running before most people even wake up. You are getting a head start.

Remember what a run can do - When you are tempted to roll over and sleep a little longer, remind yourself of what happens when you do run. Like most runners you probably feel much more awake, tuned in and energized than you normally do in the morning.

Contrast running with your day - In reality, this may be the toughest challenge of the day. Everything else will be downhill as you organize breakfast, get the kids to school, or sail into an early meeting. If you have ever watched a runner come into work, there is often an unmistakable glow that’s in sharp contrast to the regular morning group carrying coffee and plodding along.

Organize in advance - Set your alarm 10 minutes early if that works for you. Line up your clothes, sneakers, and headphones so everything is automatic.

Report to someone - Keep a journal to record your running record of times, routes and experiences. If you have a fitness coach, report in with your runs for the week.

Run with a buddy - Just knowing your friend will be there ready to go makes it easier to push on ahead. The two of you may take turns nudging each other to get up and get out there.

Create some goals - Where do you want to be in six weeks or six months with your running? Are you training for special events, or should you be? How does running fit into your overall fitness routines?

Reward yourself - For every morning that you show up and complete the run, set aside some cash to spend at the end of the week. Then tuck it into savings or blow it on new gear or a great lunch out.

Whatever you do, don’t give up on those early morning runs. When you miss one, push a little harder to make the next one. The one grinning will be you.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Downers Grove, Ill.

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