Burned Out.....

[SeRapH&CheRi]

For over a year and a half I've been running consistently, 3-4 times a week. In between my runs I try to incorporate strength training, pilates or yoga. However, in the last few months I've been feeling quite unmotivated with my running. I try to run about 3 miles during the week and on the weekends about 4-6 miles. But lately that's dropped and I feel like I don't even have the energy to run even two miles. What's even more depressing is that while I was running up to 10 minute miles, I have now regressed to running between 11.5 - 12 minute miles. What's wrong with me? Do any of you out there have any suggestions on how I can improve on my time and motivation? Thanks.

S&C

 

[fallen^sparrow]

If your feeling burned out from running then its time to take a break CheRi. What other aerobic interests do you have or possibly have an interest in trying? Our cycling ranks are FULL of runners or ex-runners who either need a way to cross train, have sustained running injuries past or present, or are plain burnt out from running. Swimming, roller blading, paddling/kayaking, climbing... even speed walking are possible avenues to take for a couple week hiatus while you let your body and mind recover. Give it time and the desire to run long and fast will return and in the meantime you might discover a new favorite sport.

fallen^sparrow

 

[Cristiano]

Here are some things that I would look at to see about your lack of motivation and additional running time. 1) Have you gained any weight? I know when I gained just a few pounds (5-10), I noticed a huge difference in my ability to jog well. My legs ached more and I was out of breath more 2) Are you under stress? That can cause a huge lack of motivation, but if you force yourself, it will help relieve the stress. 3) Have you changed your lifestyle/habits suddenly. Such changes like the time you get up or when you eat, etc., can all cause problems 4) Is your body telling you it is bored with the same old routine? Your body needs variety. I would encourage you to try jogging longer on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and doing a short routine in Tuesday and Thursday to give your body time to recover. 5) The time of day you go has a big affect on it as well as when you eat. If you eat right before you run, your body's energy is going toward digestion and not helping to fuel your run

Try to use the time to get with God or listen to some music, etc. Use it as your unwinding time to think or just contemplate life. Hope this helps.

For over a year and a half I've been running consistently, 3-4 times a week. In between my runs I try to incorporate strength training, pilates or yoga. However, in the last few months I've been feeling quite unmotivated with my running. I try to run about 3 miles during the week and on the weekends about 4-6 miles. But lately that's dropped and I feel like I don't even have the energy to run even two miles. What's even more depressing is that while I was running up to 10 minute miles, I have now regressed to running between 11.5 - 12 minute miles. What's wrong with me? Do any of you out there have any suggestions on how I can improve on my time and motivation? Thanks.

S&C