Sunday, August 26, 2012

Do You Have Any Tweezers?

People tell me all the time they can’t get motivated to run, especially first thing in the morning. I can totally relate. I mean who wants to see this?

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And, for God’s sake, who wants to run in the sunshine and cool morning air?

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Yeah, that was sarcasm. I know everyone is different, and while I have a hard time getting motivated to floss my teeth, write my reports, cut my nails, answer the phone, figure out what’s for dinner and a million other things, I almost never don’t feel like running (well, ask me again when it’s 10 degrees and dark outside).

I don’t know the key to being motivated. I don’t think it’s something you just “become.” You either are or you’re not, and it’s hard to talk yourself into it if you’re not. But, just because you aren’t motivated, doesn’t mean that has to be an excuse. The more you stop thinking about it and just go do it, the more successful you feel. The more successful you feel, the more you see results. The more you see results, the more motivated you will become. Or, that’s my experience anyway.

Bottom line: Stop expecting to feel motivated. That will come. Sometimes in life the action has to precede the feeling.

Today’s run was an easy 10 miler through the back roads of Boulder County. Ken and I only passed two people who stared at us and would not say “Good morning” back. I still don’t get that. Why not just smile, wave or say something? Fortunately, we did not run into any overweight men in short jean overalls who were peeing. We did hear some mules mating, though. Hee-haaahh! They need to get a room.

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I turned on the auto alert on my Garmin to tell me when I went above 154 bpm with my heart rate. This pretty much meant that the entire run was one big alarm going off again and again. It wasn’t annoying at all for Ken. Not one bit. Next week I’m going to run with a bunch of coins in my pockets.

After the run I got some splinters in my ass.

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Then I went and got  my reward. I’m pretty sure this donut is the perfect 3:1 carb to protein ratio. The dough is high carb and the custard is high protein. The sprinkles have electrolytes in them. I’m not sure what the coffee is. Liquid meth.

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What’s your post run reward? For long runs, mine’s always coffee and either a breakfast sandwich or a donut.

What do you do when you’re not feeling motivated to run? Duh. I go anyway. I’m always glad I did.

SUAR

59 comments:

  1. Mmmm. I don't usually have a post-long run reward but I might have to pick up a Boston Kreme tomorrow from DD - which is right across the way from my gym.

    I'm with you; if I went when I wanted to run, I wouldn't have run at all. Staying in bed is always > getting up and sweating, but I do remember that finishing a tough workout is also > being lazy. I had a hard time with that lesson today...

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  2. I love pizza so that's my fave reward. Motivation is never an issue it's trying to not run when I am not supposed to that gets me.

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  3. For my post-run reward I like a peanut butter and honey sandwich on whole wheat. It satisfies my sweet tooth while masquerading as something remotely healthy. Yesterday though my reward after 13 miles was homemade zucchini muffins (which we can all agree are pretty much zucchini cake) and clam chowder.

    When I'm not feeling motivated to run, I think about how awful I will feel physically and mentally if I DON'T run! That's also half the reason I keep a race on my schedule -- motivation!

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    1. Couldn't have said it better!! I love having a race to train for!

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  4. What is it with people not saying "good morning" back? Maybe they're struggling with motivation. Hmm

    I had a horribly slow 16 miler yesterday. My head was motivated, but my legs weren't. I finally channeled Jens Voigt and said, "Shut up legs." Having a race on the calendar is a great motivator.

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    1. I actually used to be a "non-waver/non-say-hi person. I always felt insecure about my running and would never make eye contact with other runners. Complete insecurity! I assumed everyone else was a "real runner" and could see right through me! 50lbs lighter - and ppl can't shut me up! I'm the one encouraging that shy person to look up so I can smile at them!!! ;)

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  5. I don't usually get a "right-away" long run reward because usually I've lost my appetite right after. But then when it comes roaring back I satisfy whatever craving the day brings! I so miss long runs :(

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  6. My reward after a long run is a mashed up frozen banana mixed with a spoonful of peanut butter and a drizzle of Hershey syrup on top. HEAVEN IN A BOWL!

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  7. I use to think that I could NEVER be an early morning runner! But this unusual hot dry Summer made me that 5am riser to get my run in before it got too humid and hot out. I have actually learned that I love getting up early and heading out when most of the world is still quiet. And, I'm right there with you on the not getting it as to why people can't smile or wave or even flip me a boogie....something!! Rude!

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  8. I think sprinkles, in addition to electrolytes, also contain some magic compound that speeds recovery. At least that's what I tell myself whenever I eat a doughnut, because I just cannot pass up the sprinkle doughnuts.

    I absolutely agree about not thinking too much about whether you want to go for a run. I find that when I don't have a lot of time in the morning to get ready before I head out the door for my run it's easier to get my butt out the door because I just don't have time to talk myself out of it. It's a good strategy.

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  9. This whole post is full of awesome. From the talking about early morning running (which I love) to the scenery (beautiful) to being annoyed with runners who don't say good morning back (this one guy who doesn't just not say good morning back but looks at his feet when we pass, I make a big point of waving and being really chipper when I say good morning to him) to the doughnut and coffee (I can't run right now due to plantar fasciitis, but my son and I walked 3.5 miles yesterday and I got a freshly made doughnut with lime-basil glaze and an iced coffee at the end - heaven!!). Like you, motivation to exercise is not something I struggle with. To fold laundry, or plan meals, or clean out my closet, yes. Running - never.

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  10. Post run reward - it's Saturday morning Starbucks with the half dozen or more folks I just ran with while we keep talking. You'd think we'd be talked out but we can keep it going for another two hours! And saying "hey" to all the other runners that show up too.
    Motivation has been tough this summer during the week. Most of my weekday runs (OK, I only do two) have been solo for a variety of reasons. The thing that gets me out is having learned that I never regret going out for a run and always regret skipping one. For my swimming session - love my swim peeps and that's the only time I see them. I was lost during the 3 weeks I couldn't swim earlier this summer.

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  11. My post run reward is just the satisfaction that I did it! I try not to indulge too much, as I'm still in the mode of revamping what I eat and I don't want to sabotage it (taste one piece of yumminess and I will want more!).

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  12. I have always wondered as well why people don't acknowledge with a simple hello or a smile when I say hi to them as passing. If I'm in a hard push and can't get out a hi, I still throw up couple fingers for acknowledgment. I mean really...the eye contact has been made already for f sake. I haven't been able to run for 2 months...have an appointment in 2 weeks and hoping to get an all clear. My problem won't be motivation but holding back because I have missed it so much!
    Love your blog!

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  13. Chai latte and a scone. Yum! But that doesn't happen very often. Most of the time I settle for a berry protein smoothie.

    Remembering how awesome I feel after running is my motivation!

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  14. Post long run reward: Pancakes. Big fluffy pancakes. And bacon. And coffee. And a nap.
    I'm with you, I go out anyway and I'm always glad I did.

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  15. Love, love, love your blog! I have run for about a year and a half and signed up for my first race (1/2 marathon) four weeks ago. Right now my training plan keeps me motivated, but I found that at some point months ago, running stopped being about getting in my exercise and more about just loving the feel of the road beneath my feet and fresh morning air. I run because I love to run. It is funny you mentioned people not saying hi, because lately I have been running on our city's most popular trail in the mornings and I can't believe how many people ignore me when I lift my hand in a wave. After my long run each week, I end up at the farmer's market and grab some locally roasted coffee and a whole grain berry muffin. I figured the 10 miles justify the carbs in the huge muffin.... :)

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  16. My post long run (anything over 10km) is a hot chocolate made with Lindt dark chocolate flakes - delicious! I always smile or say 'morning' to other runners, although sometimes my Sunday morning early run doesn't happen until 2pm.. I'm pretty motivated but stuff around doing my warm up exercises for ages.
    Fi

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  17. Well, today my post run reward was one of those frozen Daily's Margaritas that had been taking up space in our freezer for about a year. I only suggest this when A) you are running after lunch and B) you have time for a big nap afterward.

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    1. This is an awesome post run strategy and one I will be trying!!

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  18. 40+ years of being "motivated"-is that what it is? I thought it was just my love to get out in the a.m. and set the day for work....

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  19. SuperSonic Breakfast Burrito and a large Diet Cherry Limeade!

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  20. Everyday I decide to run. It isn't always easy and sometimes it is painful, but I agree the more a person agonizes about it the harder it gets. I suppose that's why I like your blog. Just SUAR. Post run treat?...well I still have something healthy. My own smoothie of the day. Always with whey protein,carrots, spinach and two fruits. I drink the whole blender full. Not too fun but it is quick. I still need to lose 25 lbs...down 53 already!

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  21. My problem isn't motivation, but holding back to prevent over-training injuries. I run for fun, and if running quit being fun I'd probably find another activity. Now, if you were talking about treadmill running... I'm not sure there is anything that could motivate me enough for that!
    As for rewards... new running clothes! I now have more workout wear than street clothes.

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    1. That is my problem right now. After a few years running, totally motivated and enjoying it, I suddenly stopped having fun. After a week pretty much off, I actually feel better...no upper back discomfort, no stiff legs in the morning...even feel less stress. Was hoping I'd feel really ready to go back but nope....hmmmm...

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  22. I like smoothies, bagels and cream cheese (yes, that's plural), and coffee after a long run.

    Motivation varies. Right now, it's training for my first marathon. Previously, it was just to go out and enjoy the outdoors and be active. Working off those extra calories is pretty motivating too!

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  23. When I read the title of the blog I thought maybe you saw me out running! My big treat is popcorn and Crisp hard cider. Of course I can't reward myself often with that. It's more of a LONG LONG run treat. Coffee is a necessity!

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  24. My exercising strategy keeps me inspired, so I do jogging and running consistently. I have actually discovered that I really like getting up beginning and going out when most around the globe is still silent. I run because I really like to run.


    Rutherford personal trainer

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  25. If I'm ever unmotivated to step out the door, I think about how much more motivated I feel after each run, and that gets me going - there's never been a run I regretted! Plus, I don't want to get behind on my schedule!
    And on mornings like yours, with that scenery and the promise of a chocolate donut with sprinkles afterwards, I'd have no hesitation!

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  26. I can't remember the last time I've craved a doughnut, but I keep re-visting this page so I can stare at the pic of yours. That looks amazing.

    post-run, I always have coffee. It's an excellent addition to an ice bath, too. (drinking it, while sitting...not bathing in the coffee)
    I'm very rarely un-motivated to run. I'm generally a 5 am runner & know if I don't get it done then, it won't happen.

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  27. Motivation is always the idea that I can do it, therefore, I should. People all over the world would love to run, but can't stand let alone run. I can, therefore I should!
    I like to refuel and treat myself with brown sugar and cinnamon frosted mini wheats.

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  28. A cup of coffee. Sometimes a smoothie. Which all of a sudden sounds SO good.

    The Kidless Kronicles

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  29. My post long run reward is usually a bagel & coffee. It's well earned!

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  30. Please tell me that is a water bottle in Ken's hand in the shadow picture!! If not, I will not only hate you for having flat abs and tiny boobs, but I will also have a certain kind of envy that Freud talks about!

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    1. Are you sure that is Beth taking a pic of Ken? In that case, who is taking a pic of the person taking a pic? Hmmm.... things that keep me awake at night...

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  31. I think it's hard to explain motivation sometimes. People ask me all the time how I do it. And my reply is "I just do it"....it's plain and simple and it is the honest truth.

    I love having a huge mocha after a long run!

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  32. Sometimes the ad writers get it right--you just have to do it, motivated or not. I motivate myself by remembering that I never regret going for a run, only not doing it.

    Favorite reward after a long run: Dairy Queen choco cherry love blizzard. Hey, it's got protein and carbs, right? Yum.

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  33. I talk myself right out the door. I have to get up early anyway (farm chores and a husband with an early commute) so as I am getting everything ready for my day, I am talking out loud about needing to get upstairs already and into my running/biking gear. Then I talk all the way back downstairs until the shoes are tied and I'm out the door and my brain goes, "what just happened?" and off I run.

    Post long-run treat? Big iced coffee with ovaltine in it and a banana.

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  34. I think after having a long injury, I am pretty much always motivated to get out the door. It sets the tone for a fantastic day after. What's not to like?

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  35. I don't really have a problem with being motivated, I kind of always am! I always tell myself to get out there no matter what and I always feel better after I do! I guess playing sports my entire life has always kept me motivated.

    The only problem I'm having right now is an IT band issue which really sucks because it's frustrating that it wont go away. Have you ever had an IT issue? I know you've said you've had injuries but I can't remember if that was one of them. What'd you do during your injuries?

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    1. I have IT band issues. It sucks, but if you roll out on a foam roller before and after a run it helps a lot.

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    2. This IT band release really helped me:

      http://essentialsomatics.wordpress.com/2012/02/01/why-it-band-stretches-dont-work-and-what-will/

      I do it before and after each run now - and sometimes (if I notice that area getting tight) in the middle of my run. It was the first exercise I tried that brought immediate relief.

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  36. Pretty sure you were the one I shouted "Looking Good Girl!" to as I pedaled along for Venus de Miles. What a gorgeous day for a run (and bike ride!)

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  37. I love running in the morning! I get up around 0315 before work to slam some coffee and jump on the treadmill before my brain knows what has happened. It starts my day off great and, guess what? There are far fewer sharts that happen before breakfast than at the end of the day! BONUS!!! I do love Starbucks after my long runs, or Turleys!

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  38. My post run reward is a protein smoothy smoothy and a nice long shower....

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  39. my post run reward is a cold drink of water and bragging to my husband about my run as though I had completed a marathon. I really break it down for him just to watch his eyes glaze over. I LOVED this entry...I often wait for "perfect conditions" but am finally getting antsy if I don't get out there.

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  40. After a long run, it is oatmeal with fruit and nuts and a couple strips of bacon and then a long nap!

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  41. I can't believe so many people run without coffee in them. I MUST pay homage to the Dark Lord before swim, bike or run. Of course, I pay homage afterwards too. I'm a very religious person. Sometimes I pay homage in the afternoons too. Um, was there anything else in your post other than coffee? I forgot.... Yuuuummmm... coffee...

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    1. I was thinking the same thing!!! I love coffee before AND after!!!

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    2. I was thinking the same thing!!! I love coffee before AND after!!!

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    3. hehe...the Dark Lord. I'll have to use that.

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  42. I just had this same why-not-just-smile-back conversation with myself on my run this morning. I usually wave at everyone or say something to the people I pass. Mostly so they don't run me over, but also because it's just awkward not to. I have noticed a trend in my neck of the woods. The police do not wave or smile back. It's almost a little game. I wave, smile, and give them a big giddy "Good Morning!" and they don't respond. I win the game every time.

    I do have a question about your HR training. What do you do when you hit your HR limit? I used to train with my HRM, but couldn't get into a groove of having to slow down or walk when my heart rate exceeded my range. Any tips for staying in a rhythm?

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  43. When I'm not motivated I promise myself a reward which is food-based 90% of the time. For instance, I have already decided that when I finish my 15 miler on Saturday I give myself permission to pig out on tortilla chips and guac at my favorite Mexican restaurant.

    Iced coffee and a bagel with cream cheese is my more usual reward, especially after an early morning run.

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  44. Just started reading and nice to see a fellow Colorado runner! The trails are great and plentiful here :)

    I have to admit, I have a hard time running in the morning. Though it is partially due to my needing to be out the door for my bus. With that, I like my evening runs pretty well and don't have a problem getting out the door. Motivation was a bigger issue when I was juat jumping back on the running bandwagon, but now it feels like something is missing when I don't run.

    As for reward: almost always a cold beer :)

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  45. I always ALWAYS enjoy your blog! Thank you for putting such funny and insightful material out to the universe!
    My post run reward: a hot bath and a big bowl of pasta!
    When I'm not feeling motivated: I spend some time listening to my happy music. Always gets me.

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  46. I'm definitely a self-motivated person, yet I can NOT for the life of me run in the morning before work. It just will. not. happen. Your runs look so beautiful too! What is WRONG with me? I know, like you said, you either have it or you don't. I'm totally motivated to run at 7pm, but never 6am. I really wish I could reverse that.

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  47. Getting up early to run in the morning and watching dawn break is so much better than trying to run after a long day's work.

    My favorite treat after a long run is a nap. it's my reward for getting up so darn early.

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