5 ways runners can keep motivated in the winter

Don’t be a fair weather runner this winter! It’s easy to keep to the warmth of your house and not go running when it gets colder, darker and the rain becomes more regular.

Here are my top five ways to keep you motivated this winter, so you don’t feel like a beginner again come spring.

Run with a group

It is so much easier to go for a run if you know other people will be suffering the same freezing weather as you, and knowing people will be waiting for you will help to get you out of the door.

With a group run, you can moan about the cold as much as you like as everyone will agree with you. It can be rubbish running in the cold, but at least you are all in it together. Plus you won’t stay cold for long as the run will quickly warm you up.

Get out at lunchtime

If you really hate running in the dark then a lunchtime run might be just the thing for you. It’s a great way to break up the day and make the most of the daylight. A lunchtime run will ensure you get moving, really important if your work involves sitting down all day. And getting outside can clear the head and make for a faster, more productive afternoon.

Make it social

If you don’t like the idea of running with a group, then how about running with a friend or two? Running with friends is a great way to catch up with each other, and a social, chatty run can make the time go by so much quicker.

Just a word of advice – if you run at different paces agree on a strategy before hand. You won’t want to be frustrated that you could be running faster or breathless after running an unexpected speed session!

Bonus: finish at a café, or even a pub, for a drink afterwards.

Pick a spring race

Entering a race is a really good way to keep motivated. You know that if you don’t run, you won’t be ready! And you won’t want to waste your entry fee with a DNS (Did Not Start). However, it’s important to pick something that is inspiring but achievable. If you know you really hate running longer distances in the winter, look for a shorter race distance in a beautiful location so you are motivated by the view and location.

Stay indoors and strength train

Having said all that, if you really hate running in the winter why not swap one of your runs for a workout? Runners are notoriously guilty of just running and not building the strength needed to run, which makes winter a perfect time to start establishing your routine. And with so many online workouts, and even online coaching, you don’t even need to leave the house to go to the gym!

Want to know more about how I can help you to keep motivated over the winter? Why not book a discovery call and let’s chat.