Running help?

Question

i am a varsity hockey player and during the off season i need and would like to stay in shape, but i really can't find the personal determination to get up and run. I always say i will but when it actually comes to doing the deed i manage to get out of it.I am not a very good runner but i manage. I am quite fit, but that is just because i have a really fast metabolism. I want to run and i want to stay in shape but it just isn't fun and i just can't find the drive. so my question is how do i make running fun, how do i make working out fun, how do i find the self determination to work out.

Answer 1

I'm also a hockey player and a track runner. When you look at it track and hockey aren't very different. Both require the same motivation to go out and practice. Running can give you the endurance to be a great hockey player. I always find myself playing better in the 3rd period. Anyways set goals for yourself like; run a mile in 6 minutes, run 30 miles in a week. When your feeling bad running just think about making it another lap.

Answer 2

First, think about and reflect on your reasons for wanting to run and ask yourself if you are being honest with yourself. You should believe in your reasons and be committed to your goal. If you aren't, then you are sure to fail.

Secondly, set realistic but tough goals for your running but don't set a goal that is so tough you can't complete it. Setting an easy initial goal may be necessary in order to make sure that you finish it. Don't make it too easy though, you want to complete something that you can be proud of. The next time you run be sure to meet or exceed the previous goal, you'll know you can do it because you did it before. If you are really thinking of quitting during a run DON'T DO IT! Just slow down instead, and KEEP RUNNING to completion.  

Third, give yourself enough time to recover. I don't know how old you are but running every day may be too frequently. I suggest you start with a 20-30 minute run of moderate difficulty three times a week.

Fourth, if you do fail then you should feel bad about it if you know the run was something you could have done. Don't accept excuses for your own choice to fail. Remember the bad feeling of failure and learn that to avoid it you've got to stick with what you know you are capable of doing. Look at the success of completing your run as the reward that you want.

One bitter pill for you may be the fact that running may not be fun until you are done. For fun enter a small five k and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow runners.

Good Luck!