running motivation Archives

The holidays are a time for family, festivities, and, of course, food. However, they can also throw a wrench in your regular workout routine, especially when it comes to your Twin Cities running schedule. Whether you’re training for a race or just trying to stay in shape, it can be challenging to maintain consistency with all the holiday distractions. But don’t worry—staying on track during the holiday season is possible, and it doesn’t have to be a stressful endeavor.

In this post, we’ll explore some practical tips for maintaining your running routine through the holidays while enjoying the season’s festivities. Let’s dive into how you can keep running and make the most of the holiday season.

1. Set Realistic Goals for Your Twin Cities Running Routine

The holidays are busy, and it’s important to adjust your expectations. Rather than aiming for big personal records or completing long runs, focus on maintaining consistency. Setting realistic goals for the holiday season will help keep you motivated without adding extra stress.

How to Set Goals:

Keep Runs Short and Sweet: Aim for 20-30 minute runs a few times a week to maintain your fitness level without overwhelming yourself.
Make It About Consistency: Set a goal to run at least 3 times per week to stay on track and make running a part of your holiday routine.
Be Flexible: If you miss a run, don’t be discouraged. Just get back to your next run with a positive mindset.

2. Take Advantage of Holiday Breaks for Longer Twin City Runs

While your schedule might be tighter, the holiday season can also offer more free time to fit in longer runs. Take advantage of holiday breaks or slower days to head out for a longer run around your neighborhood or the beautiful trails in the Twin Cities.

How to Fit in Longer Runs:

Plan Ahead: Look for days when you have a little extra time, such as weekends or during family downtime, and schedule your long run in advance.
Explore New Routes: The holidays are a perfect time to explore different running routes in the Twin Cities. Check out some festive neighborhoods or winter trails to mix up your regular routes.

3. Use the “Lovely” Twin City Running Weather to Your Advantage

Winter running in the Twin Cities can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be a deterrent. Embrace the cold weather by dressing appropriately and adjusting your training to take advantage of winter conditions.

Tips for Cold-Weather Running:

Dress in Layers: Wear moisture-wicking layers to stay dry and warm. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and thermal socks to protect your extremities.
Run During Daylight: As the days get shorter, make sure to run during daylight hours to avoid running in the dark and to enjoy the winter beauty of the Twin Cities.
Watch for Ice: Make sure to wear shoes with good traction to prevent slipping, especially on icy sidewalks and trails.

4. Include Cross-Training and Strength Work

The holidays are a great time to mix things up and keep your workouts fun and fresh. If you’re short on time or facing poor weather conditions, cross-training can be an excellent alternative to running. Activities like cycling, swimming, or even yoga will keep you active while giving your running muscles a break.

Cross-Training Tips:

Indoor Workouts: Try indoor cycling or join a fitness class to keep up your cardio fitness when running outdoors isn’t an option.
Strength Training: Incorporate strength training into your routine to build overall muscle strength and help prevent injuries. Focus on exercises that target your core, legs, and glutes to support your running.

5. Stay Motivated by Joining Twin City Holiday-Themed Running Races

What better way to keep your Twin Cities running routine on track than by signing up for a holiday-themed race? Many local events, like the Turkey Trot or the New Year’s Eve runs, offer fun, festive atmospheres that can make running through the holidays more enjoyable.

How to Get Involved in Holiday Races:

Look for Local Races: The Twin Cities area has plenty of holiday-themed races, ranging from fun runs to more competitive events. Find a race that fits your fitness level and get involved.
Join the Holiday Spirit: Participating in a themed run, such as a holiday lights race, can add a festive touch to your training and motivate you to keep moving during the holidays.

6. Embrace a Flexible Schedule

The holidays are a time for celebration, but they’re also a time when life can get chaotic. Instead of trying to stick rigidly to your running schedule, allow yourself to be flexible. The goal is to stay active, even if it means adjusting your runs or switching up your training methods.

How to Stay Flexible:

Shorter, More Frequent Runs: If time is limited, opt for shorter runs more frequently. Even a 10-minute run can be better than skipping it altogether.
Use Active Family Time: Take advantage of family gatherings by going for a run with a loved one, or join in on a game of catch or tag to keep active while spending time together.

7. Focus on Enjoying the Season

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the holiday season! Running through the holidays doesn’t have to feel like an obligation. Focus on the fun aspects, like the winter scenery or the joy of outdoor runs with friends and family. After all, running is meant to be a joyful experience, not something that adds stress to an already busy season.

Tips for Enjoying Your Runs:

Take in the Scenery: Enjoy the holiday lights and festive decorations around the Twin Cities as you run. Make your route scenic and take time to appreciate the seasonal beauty.
Celebrate Small Wins: Celebrate your running achievements, no matter how small. Whether it’s running a mile or completing a fun race, give yourself credit for staying active.

Wrapping It All Up…

Training through the holidays doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right mindset and some adjustments to your routine, you can continue your Twin Cities running journey without missing a beat. Whether you’re tackling longer runs when you have free time, staying active with cross-training, or signing up for fun holiday races, there are plenty of ways to keep running enjoyable and rewarding. Remember, the holidays are about balance, so don’t feel pressured to be perfect—just keep moving, have fun, and enjoy the season.

You might also enjoy our other post called: Running Can Be Fun – Really!

Or checkout our our Instagram page! You’ll find lots of motivation from our own expert running coach, Jeremy.

Ever feel like running is more of a chore than something fun?

Especially when you’re over 40, dealing with old injuries, and just can’t shake that fatigue.

You’re not the only one.

Running can be tough, but it should also be enjoyable. And guess what? It’s possible to bring back that excitement.

Let’s dive into some friendly advice on how you can find the fun in running again. From cool tips to handle those aches to making the most of Eastern Greater Twin Cities’ trails, we’ve got the whole package waiting for you.

Focus on Fun, Not Just Fitness

When was the last time you actually had fun running?

I mean, did something that made you smile while hitting the pavement?

For many, this might be rare, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

Mix It Up with Music or Podcasts

Grab those headphones and spice up your run.

Find a playlist that makes your feet want to dance, or maybe a podcast that gets you thinking.

It can make all the difference.

Run with Your Buddy or Pet

Running alone can feel like forever.

But with a buddy, whether it’s your best friend or even your dog, the time flies by.

You’ll find yourself looking forward to the next run.

Handle Injuries Without Missing Out

Ever think about how to run without aggravating those old pains?

It’s not just about pushing through. It’s about being smart and listening to what your body says.

Try the Run-Walk Method

It’s not cheating. It’s being kind to yourself.

By alternating between running and walking, you let your body rest without stopping the momentum.

This helps build endurance while keeping the impact low.

Stretch Before and After

Yes, you’ve heard it before, but a five-minute stretch can save you tons of pain.

It’s a small thing that makes a big difference. Hit the hamstrings, calves, and quads.

And the back, too. Don’t skip these.

Embrace the Outdoors

Eastern Greater Twin Cities has some cool spots to run.

You can soak in those sights and smells.

The change in scenery helps distract from the grind and lets your senses enjoy too.

Explore Different Trails

Have fun with different paths, from smooth ones to bumpy terrains.

Each brings its own charm and challenge, keeping things fresh and exciting.

Breathe in the Beauty

Stop sometimes, and take a look around.

It’s not just about the destination. It’s the journey.

Feeling the breeze, watching leaves dance in the wind, it’s poetry in motion.

By shifting focus to enjoyment, running becomes more than a workout. It turns into an adventure, with fun at every corner.

Turn Running Into Play: Break Free from Routine

Feeling stuck in the same running routine can turn monotony into your worst running partner. Let’s look at ways to add a playful twist to your runs, making every stride something to look forward to.

Try New Techniques Like Fartlek Training

Ever heard of fartlek? It sounds funny, but it’s essentially playing with speed. You vary your pace without structure, like sprinting to a tree, then slowing down. It breaks the routine and trains your body to handle changes in pace.

Participate in Fun Runs and Events

Sign up for local races that emphasize fun, not competition. Think color runs or themed races. It’s a fantastic way to soak up a light-hearted, encouraging environment while meeting fellow runners who might share tips or stories.

Create Mini-Challenges

Make a game of it. Set little objectives like “run to the next park without stopping” or “beat your last time by a few seconds.” These tiny victories are satisfying and make runs engaging.

Mind Your Mindset: Running with a Purpose

Running can teach you more than just fitness. It’s a metaphor for life’s ups and downs, teaching resilience, patience, and focus.

Set Meaningful Goals Beyond Speed

Identify what running brings to your life. Is it stress relief, time to reflect, or physical progress that matters most? Align your runs with these deeper meanings to add a layer of purpose to each session.

Reflect During Your Runs

Running is time for your mind to wander or focus – it’s up to you. Use this time to reflect on your day, make decisions you’ve been putting off, or simply enjoy solitude. This mental accountability can be as rewarding as the physical challenge.

Journaling After Runs

Consider documenting how you feel post-run. Not just about the miles covered, but about any mindset shifts or ideas that popped up. It’s a great way to track growth both on and off the track.

The Power of Community: You’re Not Alone

Finding a supportive community can fuel your passion and help you push through tough times and injuries.

Join a Local Running Club

Find one in the Twin Cities. The camaraderie in these clubs can be a huge motivation. Runners supporting each other with tips and encouragement is a game-changer. We have one here at True Fit MN and would love to have you join us. We’re all friendly!

Connect Online

If in-person groups aren’t your vibe, online communities can be just as supportive. Platforms like Strava allow you to track runs, set goals, and cheer each other on despite being miles apart.

Mentor or Be Mentored

Share your experiences with a novice runner or seek guidance from someone more skilled. This exchange of perspectives keeps the running spirit alive and opens up new avenues of learning.

Next, we’ll wrap it all up with more ways to keep running fun while seriously considering what makes it vital for your lifestyle balance.

Incorporate Balance: Life and Running

Balancing life and running can be tricky, especially if you’re over 35. How do you ensure both get the attention they deserve without stretching yourself too thin?

Schedule It Like an Appointment

Make running a priority by adding it to your calendar just like any other important task. It helps prevent life’s chaos from infringing on your precious running time.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how you feel, not only physically but mentally before, during, and after runs. This awareness helps tailor your routine to match your needs, making running more sustainable and enjoyable.

Practice Self-Compassion

Give yourself leeway to skip a run or cut one short without guilt. Life happens, and sometimes rest is more beneficial than pushing through exhaustion.

Keep It Fresh: Fresh Gear, Fresh Mindset

Sometimes lacing up in the same shoes day in and day out gets mundane. Fresh gear can give a psychological boost, making you feel eager to get out there and break them in.

Invest in Proper Footwear

Nothing increases motivation and comfort like the right pair of shoes. Visit local stores that specialize in running gear so your choice suits how and where you run.

Try New Apparel

New running clothes not only boost confidence but can also serve functional purposes, like better breathability or protection against the elements, keeping running comfortable year-round.

Encouragement to Keep Running Alive

Bringing fun back to running takes a bit of effort, but the rewards are plentiful – a joyful, balanced life, enhanced fitness, and renewed excitement for running.

Through mixing up your routine, adapting mindset shifts, embracing community support, and maintaining balance, running becomes something you relish.

Stay Motivated

Use these tips to keep your running game strong and fun. Whatever challenges life throws, let these tools keep you smiling through your runs.

Whether you’re exploring new techniques, embracing the beauty of Twin Cities trails, or sharing experiences with new running mates, enjoy each moment.

So, grab those sneakers, strike a pose at the starting line, and let the joy of running inspire your journey beyond fitness.

You might also enjoy our other post on how nutrition can help prevent running injuries.