New Year’s resolutions are a wonderful way to start the year off right, and choosing to become healthier with a running program is an excellent start. Though New Year’s resolutions tend to get sidelined once their momentum dissipates, those who choose to start running can maintain their resolve throughout the year and beyond with careful planning, preparation and motivation.
Writing Down Realistic Goals For Running
When making New Year’s resolutions, it is easy to produce generalized assertions, such as resolving to lose weight or promising oneself to quit smoking. However, resolutions are much easier to maintain if they are broken down into realistic, specific goals. In her About.com article, “Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions” (November 24, 2008), Christine Luff recommends writing down detailed goals that will be easier to plan for, such as working toward a 5K race or losing five pounds. Such goals should be attainable and realistic, so that starting a running program does not become a hassle to maintain.
Those resolving to run may also wish to write down a few reasons why they have made this resolution, as understanding one’s purpose will make the goal more meaningful. Some may wish to start running for weight loss, while others may have always wanted to run, but never strapped on their shoes and tried. Realizing why the resolution is important will help new runners maintain their plan.
Preparing For The First Run
Once new runners have written down their goals, they can prepare to start running by scheduling their workouts at convenient times. Luff mentions that many resolutions are sidelined by inconvenience, and that planning ahead will ensure that motivation is maintained. For example, some new runners may have more time in the morning before work, while others may wish to schedule their runs over their lunch break, as mid-afternoon stress relief. Making running as easy and convenient as possible will help runners keep their New Year’s resolution.
Part of the beauty of running is how little is needed to carry it out, and aside from planning ahead, new runners really only need a good pair of shoes to begin their jogging program. Jonathan Lyau of the Honolulu Advertiser (“Get A Running Start On New Year’s Resolutions,” January 5, 2007) recommends visiting a running store to be fitted for proper shoes, and to bring an old pair of shoes along to help determine the wear pattern of the new runner’s stride.
Once new runners actually begin to run, it is important to start slowly and build up to attainable goals. Lyau recommends starting out with running/walking intervals, such as one minute of running and one minute of walking, and building up to a level that feels comfortable. Eventually, the running spurts will gradually replace walking intervals.
Staying motivated to maintain New Year’s resolutions may be difficult for some new runners, but keeping one’s written goals can continue to be inspiring. In moments of lagging resolve, runners can simply look at the reasons that made them wish to begin running in the first place, and that purpose can help drive a running routine beyond a New Year’s resolution, and into a lifelong habit.
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