Runner's Training Tips: Not motivated though July - how do I get it back

So true, just run.  Although that is easier said than done! It's all about finding something that works for you.  I am in the same slump.  I have been sleeping in so I can't go running before work and when I get out I NEVER feel like running so really if I don't go in the morning, it doesn't happen.  I still make it out during the week sometimes, but not nearly as often as I should. They say it takes 21 days to form a habit, so that's what I'm trying.  21 days in a row where I don't hit the snooze button, put on my running shorts (which I strategically place right next to my alarm clock) and go, no matter how much I want to crawl back into bed.  Each day I do it, I get to cross off a day (I get real gratification from crossing things off of lists)  If I miss a day, I'll have to start back at 21.  Hopefully after the 21 days it'll be a habit.  I'm not through all the days yet, but I'll let you know how it works out.  I guess the key is to identify the problem ie. WHY are you not feeling like running? And then make a plan to solve it. 

 Also, I am running a marathon with the leukemia and lymphoma society and whenever I don't feel like running, I remind myself that there are people in hospital beds that are going through chemo who would KILL for the chance to just get out there and walk!  You should run because you CAN run! Not everybody can do it, so take advantage!

 Hope that helps, good luck finding your motivation again!

Bendy, find a friend to run with you (or perhaps your soon to be wife would like to ride a bicycle alongside you). If you have someone who is relying on you to be there, then it makes it a lot easier to get out and go.

For example, every weekend I meet up with some people at 6 am (so I have to wake up at 5:30) in order to do a long run. If it were just me, you could bet that I would be sleeping in until like 10 and then just running on the same set of trails for 20 miles. Imagine how boring and unmotivating THAT would be.

Hey Bendy!

I've recently experienced the same "no motivation to busy for life" syndrome.  A couple of ways I've found to get back onto the pavement:

1) Load up about 20-30 mins of your favorite pump up music to your mp3 player.  Arrange your music so the songs are in a slow, to fast, to super fast, to medium fast, to slow song order and then hit the pavement.  Let the music guide your run.  Cruise along on those slow jams and kick a little for the fast ones.  This way you'll be more focused on the music instead of your running.  This works great for a new cd.  Load it up and focus on listening for the very first time while you run.

 2) Try going for a few swims or a bike ride to ease yourself back into the running life instead of jumping right back in.  Both are much lower impact sports than running and if you're not a "native" swimmer or biker, you may notice things a few new things are your gym or fnd a few new detours to take on your usual run route.

3) Organize a soccer game or a frisbee free for all with some friends.  You'll run around like crazy without noticing it.

4) My boyfriend and I actually run together (meaning side by side and not just at the same time on the same path) at least once a week.  This helps us spend time together and relax.  We've explored several new parks in our area together this way.

Good luck! I hope your back on the pavement soon!

When I was a young music student, my teacher always told me that the biggest part of practicing was getting the instrument out of the case and setting it up..... after that, practicing is easy.  I find the same thing goes with running.  I may be completely unmotivated, but I find if I go through the effort of putting on running clothes, taping my feet, and lacing up those shoes, I just decide to h*** with it, put one foot in front of the other and go......

Works for me!