We’ve all been there! Running excuses combined with procrastination, you can always find a way to justify not going for a run 😁
Some of the reasons, like illness and injury do require time off. Most of the time though we look for reasons to keep us inside and browsing Netflix. Let’s take a look at the most common excuses:
Excuse 1. “I’m not making any progress or getting any faster”
Frustrated and discouraged. You feel like you aren’t getting any faster, and it’s not getting easier. Sticking with a plan and being consistent are the foundations of seeing progress, even if it takes months. To see progress, try to push yourself in runs such as incorporating sessions, in addition start to monitor other health aspects such as your resting heart rate. Remember, if you’re running each week, you’re improving your fitness one way or another, even if that’s tiny steps. Final point, it doesn’t have to be physical fitness, there are many mental benefits to running!
Excuse 2. “I’m not losing any weight”
Most runners start running with the specific goal of losing weight. It’s a worthwhile personal goal but it can take a while to see results. Frustration can grow as results take time. To fix this mindset, shift your expectations. Everyone gains and loses weight at different rates, and you shouldn’t expect to see results overnight. Are you running the same route at the same pace each time you run? If so, this could be a reason you’re not seeing any weight loss. As time passes, your body becomes accustomed to the stresses of running, especially if you’re doing the same thing time and time again. Mix up your running by incorporating sessions to get your heath rate up.
Excuse 3. “I don’t have time to run.”
1 hour is only 4% of your day. Whilst this is the most common excuse don’t let it stop you. To fix this try incorporating runs into your day, such as running to work, or getting your partner to drop you off on the way home from the shops. I’m a fan of early morning runs as you’re out the door before your mind even know what’s happening! Laying my kit out the night before to reduce that barrier really helps too. Remember, even 10 minutes of running is better than zero.
Excuse 4. “I can’t run in this weather.”
If you’re a fair-weather runner this one is for you! Rain, snow, hail, wind, cold, heat. If you’re careful you’ll never get out for a run and can always find a weather-related excuse 🙂. Some weather conditions may not be safe to run in but mostly, they are just inconvenient. Fix this by preparing for the unexpected, planning ahead and staying flexible. I check the weather in advance and plan my run so if its raining in the morning then I’ll run later in the day, or move my long run by a day. Invest in water-proof gear for rainy days and take a drink when you need extra water during summer runs. If you can’t run outdoors then move indoors. Treadmills may be boring for some but it helps you stay consistent.
Excuse 5. Insert Yours Here
Some universal advice for staying on track.
- Join a running group/club so you have a time/place to run with others.
- Arrange to run with a friend every week.
- Sign-up for an event, such as a 5k or half-marathon. Have something to work towards.
- Get motivation from social media (such as Strava) to see what your friends are you too.
- Focus on consistency, which could be simply to run three times a week or multiple weeks consistently.
Can you relate to any of these Running Excuses? What strategies do you have to get out the door, no matter what?
See my other posts which will help overcome your Running Excuses:
- Creating a good running routine
- How to make running awesome, not boring
