January 1st inspires all of us to dream big. We have great plans, and with that comes our new year resolutions. We are going to make it count this coming new year! Dreaming big isn’t enough. The dream is free but the hustle is sold separately.
Here’s how to kickstart your journey to your big goals this coming new year.
#1 Start Running Regularly
Remember that consistency is key. You want to be doing what is sustainable. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting a schedule that you can’t follow. Start with a 3-day running week and make them non-negotiable. Remember, it only takes 30 minutes of your time. Set up a running schedule – plan which 3 days you are going to run and stick to it. Another tip is to have a progress chart. Once you start to see progress, this will fuel your motivation to continue running regularly.
#2 Lose Weight
Start with clearing out your kitchen off all the junk. Throw away all the crisp, chocolate and sweets. This will make it less likely for you to reach out for that unhealthy snack. Instead, stock up on healthy snacks such as fruit and nuts. This should be the first step. Don’t go for too drastic a change. This is because our body craves the safety of familiarity. Change is difficult – especially when you are overwhelming your body with a whole bunch of extreme changes. It can start to feel like a struggle and ultimately you give in to your old effortless habits – because it’s easier.
Read: The One Big Mistake Women Make When They Start A New Weight Loss Plan
#3 Complete Your First Marathon
So, you’ve always wanted to run a marathon? Start with picking a race to join. You need an 18-week training block so pick a race that is at least 18 weeks away. Having registered for a race, you would be more committed to your training. Next is to devise a training plan – remember the most important run training for a marathon is the long run. You cannot skip your long run!
Read: Top 7 Rookie Marathon Mistakes
#4 Run A Personal Best For your 5km or 10km
Register for a race that plays to your strengths – pick a flat course! Try incorporating speed work into your training. This will help you achieve a personal best. Also, incorporate strength workouts and drills into your training. Strengthening help prevents your form from crumbling in the latter stages of the race. Drills help your running efficiency. These 2 come together to help you perform better on race day.
