The long run is one of the most important parts of your overall training program. For months and months you have been building your running strength so you can better complete the long runs that ultimately shape your racing fitness. But when the long run day comes you have no energy for it.
I am the same way. Sometimes it takes a huge level of energy to even THINK of going on a long run. Everyone struggles to do the runs required by their training plans.
But here are a few ways to keep your motivation up even on the hardest of days...
#1: Getting Started
Don't think about the long run itself; focus instead on simply getting ready for a run. I tended to review my route online and, the day before, playing it out in my mind. And getting ready to run is easy -- the concept of running 22 km isn't. Prep work is getting your shoes, your gear (, for some a playlist,) and some sleep together and you're ready to go.
Also by making your long run "just another run," you are effectively removing the mental obstacle to all those kilometers. It is just another day on your scheduled training program. You get your momentum going it, you will be much more ready to carry yourself out of the house and onto the road.
#2: Get Halfway
Just focus on getting to the halfway mark. And then all you have to do is get back home. I end up doing this a lot with my really big long runs. It allows me to plan the second half of the run, where things always get more challenging. My second halves take me back up the "hill" of Madrid and back into the center. By thinking of it as two distinct parts, you get to put a lot more of your energy into strategizing your run.
#3: Be Creative
One of the biggest reasons for burning out is having a redundant training routine. Crush this problem with some create planning: find a new route!
I am constantly trying new routes or new configurations. Runtrackr.com makes it easy with the help of Google maps.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
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