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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Mizuno. The opinions and text are all mine. #waverider21
I’ll be the first to admit, I’ve taken a huge break from running, and fitness all together. I lost motivation, and to be honest Q4 in the blogging world has kept me busy. Now that the year is coming to a close, I’ve realized I needed to get back into running and weight loss… but how? Living in New York means the temperatures are usually in the 30s-40s, and I’ll be running in the dark. But it is cold and dark isn’t really an excuse, I have a gym membership I can run on the treadmill for shorter runs and leave long runs to the weekends when I don’t have to worry about going to work.
After you’ve been on a break, the hardest part is getting moving again right? I lose motivation so easily, if I get sick, injury, sleep in a few days in a row, or anything. It takes me three times as long to get re-motivated than it does to stay motivated while I am actively working out. Even with being on this break I’ve been keeping my eating habits in check, luckily we haven’t been baking or to any parties yet so indulging myself hasn’t occurred. Even though the holidays are hard to say no to treats and indulgences I’ll be keeping them to a minimum as a way to keep on track. Seems easy enough right? Well, lets just hope I stick to it and keep my end goals in mind.
I’m sharing my 7 ways to start running after a break tips, these have worked for me time and time again. I hope these tips can help you get your foot out the door this winter or anytime you need!
1. Set a Goal. It can a race, weight loss, vacation, event, anniversary or maybe your birthday? Set the goal, write it down, keep it visible, maybe on your mirror, nightstand. Hey, you can even make a background for your phone with the countdown to that event. If it’s been a long break, maybe look for a race that’s only a 5K or 10K that is set for April. It’s 4 months away and that is plenty of time to train slowly and properly.
2. Proper Clothing. This will depend on how cold/warm it is where you live. Like I said living in NY means winter = cold. So having proper cold running gear is important. Layers work best for any situation, even with running in warmer temperatures. Also, this is my favorite tip, whatever the weather is outside, lets say 35 degrees, dress as if it’s 20 degrees warmer out, so that would mean 55. You don’t want to be sweating just because you have too many layers on, so you’ll be a little cold when you start but when you start running you’ll become warm and the layers will make sense.
3. Proper Shoes. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just beginning, having proper shoes can either help or hurt during your run. Make sure your current sneakers aren’t too worn, and that there is enough cushion for when your feet strike the ground. The Mizuno Wave Rider 21 shoe has been the key to staying motivated this fall/winter. It’s a neutral shoe that is for all runners, beginners and marathoners. My feet are secure with each strike of the pavement, whether I was running or walking. The breathable mesh around the toe of the shoe prevents my feet from becoming too hot. Since I run intervals (run/walk) I needed a shoe that would work whether I was running or walking and this is it.
4. Run with a Group/Friends. This would most likely only work on the weekends or nights with some people, myself included. But I know of running groups that run together one night a week, and there is a running club that runs every Sunday. Even if you aren’t in a running group, maybe get a few friends or ask your SO to run with you. I’ve ran with CA a handful of times, he’s a great motivator, dances while he runs… it’s hilarious and keeps me going.
5. Proper Gear. This ties into shoes and clothes. Whether you’re running where it’s warm or cold, having the proper outer gear is important. Headband for your hair (and to soak up the sweat), gloves, jacket, hat, sunglasses, flip belt or armband, headphones, water bottle, Gu, anything. Even if you’re just starting out having all of the things you need to complete the run can help you get motivated. Maybe you need some ideas to give someone to get you for Christmas?
6. Be Aware. This goes for how the road conditions are, and being aware of your surroundings. Black ice is no joke when they say it’s hard to see, it’s really hard to see. Just watch your footing and maybe walk a little if you feel it’s slippery. If you’re running in the dark, make sure you can be seen by passing cars. We have a light up vest that flashes either one color or multi colors, it can be seen far away and lets cars know someone is there. Also if you’re running alone and it’s dark out, lower your music, just in case. You are able to hear if a car or a person is approaching you.
7. Download a Rockin’ Playlist. I’m not sure about you, but a good playlist can really get me moving. I have around 10 playlists that are my motivation when I am already out running. It depends on my mood, maybe some Linkin Park, EDM, Country, Pop or a combination of them all. EDM is my favorite, the beat is fast and constant so it pushes me to run when my RunKeeper says “Run”.
Are you ready to get out there and run? What else motivates you to get back into running, maybe something different? Let me know below! If you’re looking for a new running shoe check out the Mizuno Wave Rider 21, they have Women‘s & Men‘s all available online at Mizuno.
These are some really great tips for getting back into the swing of things.
A good playlist is a must for me when I’m working out. It makes it kind of fun!
Love the photos of your shoes in the snow. I am here in Florida too afraid to run in 40 – 50 degree temps. Great tips to get people motivated for the New Year! Cheers!
Great tips. Good shoes an d a great playlist are a must.
I’m taking a break because it is ice and snow outside. I’ve been wondering if I’m going to turn to mush, this is good information.