... I know the long run is a must. The long run gets your legs and lungs used to working for the hours it takes to complete a marathon. You also need them to test out you hydration and refueling strategies that will power you through 26.2 miles on race day. And for some, including me, it is the best simulation you can have for what your race day will be like.
But you know what? I know all of that in my head, but sometimes my heart is full of dread when the long run is coming up. Tomorrow I have to put in the first long run of the training season and I just can't get excited about it. It's a short (well, for marathoners anyway) 12 miles, but it looms like a trip to the dentist.
Why can't I get excited about my long runs? I was pumped for my 5 miler yesterday and actually enjoyed the cold and the burn in my lungs. But this run tomorrow? Not excited in the least. Maybe it's because I know I will have to get up early. Maybe it's because the 2 hours of running takes away from my precious R&R time. In any case I just know the excitement isn't there.
So what do I do? Well, I am going to try and implement some different strategies that I thought I would share.
1. Have my running stuff ready to go the night before- When I wake up and have too much to get ready it not only takes more time, but also saps my motivation. If I can lay everything out the night before, I can simply get dressed and go.
2. Run a scenic route- I find that I enjoy running when I have nice scenery to enjoy as I run. And if I can vary my routes the long runs won't get to stale.
3. Run with music- I have stopped running with music for most of my training (mostly at night), because I need to be more aware of cars and traffic. But for the long runs I use mostly trails, so a nice energizing mix should provide some much needed motivation.
4. Peer pressure- Just by posting that I have a long run coming up will motivate me to do it. I can't deal with having to blog about why I didn't do a run. It's my hope this fear of shame will enter my head and will pop me out of bed each weekend.
5. Extrinsic reward- If I can't muster intrinsic motivation then I will plan one of my "cheat meals" for after that run. My wife and I are going to start a healthy eating plan (for varying reasons) and we will get two cheat meals a week. If I can think "X amount of miles equals an awesome meal" I may just get through the long run.
Now some of you are asking, why don't you run with a group? Well, the Pacers running group does their long runs on Saturday mornings and my wife's work schedule and family obligations just don't allow me to join them. What about friends? Well, most (pretty much all) of my friends don't think running between 12 and 20 miles is a great way to spend a weekend morning. But, if you would like to join me for a long run, or just part of it, I would love the company. Running with a training partner always helps the miles go faster.
Leave a comment if you would like to run!
Here's a song that always gets me going:
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