The Relay: Building Resilience as a Runner

by Peyton Thomas, Relay Squad Contributor

When I think of the word “resilience”, I think of the ability to withstand hardships and bounce back from difficulties. I use “resilience” often in reference to running. I’ve definitely had my share of low motivation and discouraged days; it is something we all deal with. There have been days when I didn’t feel up to running, so I just didn’t.

Still, bad runs and negative head spaces are often the defining moments where you choose to become resilient as a runner. Being able to push yourself through those ebbs and flows of motivation are what make you mentally tough, aware of yourself and your needs.

The next time you’re feeling “a way” about going for (or finishing) a run, instead of scrapping your run altogether, try to keep the following in mind:

Change up your route. Try not to think of your run as a chore or something you have to do, use it as a way to explore a route you haven’t taken before or in a while, if you are able and comfortable doing so.

Quality versus quantity. Not all runs are meant to be taxing. Some are there to help you recover from previous workouts or to continue building your running volume. It doesn't have to be hard for it to be considered a quality effort. Think about how you want to feel during your run.

If you have a lot of miles scheduled for a certain day and know you’re not feeling up to it, start by reducing the mileage. If you have the option, break up the mileage throughout the day or add some miles to other days on your running schedule. It’s better for your mentality to feel good and know you are getting in a few quality miles versus trying to force yourself to do more ‘not-so-quality’ miles.

Post-run gratification. Whether you are attempting to do a workout or run some easy miles, there is always a feeling of accomplishment at the end of the run. Even if you aren’t mentally prepared to do a workout or log miles at a certain pace, you’ll still feel better at the end of the day having gotten a run in.

Enrich your runs. If you find yourself getting bored with day-to-day running, find things that will enrich your runs. Download a plant and animal identification app and use the run as a self-guided nature tour. Listen to podcasts (if you are able and feel safe enough to do so). Finding things that pique your curiosity during runs may help you find more intrigue in the monotony.

If your running “funk” becomes more of a pattern, there could be more at issue than simply boredom or problems getting motivated. Dive a little deeper to find more ways to push yourself through your running commitment.

Accountability. Understandably, during this time, many people still feel wary of running with others, but there are still ways to hold each other accountable. Start a group chat with fellow running friends and update each other on your runs. Check in regularly to help one another stay focused.

Communicate your struggle. Talk with a fellow running friend about the reasons why you may be feeling unmotivated right now. They may express similar feelings and you can help each other out by just simple accountability and vulnerability.

Try other activities. Break up running routines with cross training or other outdoor activities. Trying out other cardiovascular activities may help reignite your desire to run or give your mind and body a break from daily running.

Ask yourself why you run. The reasons you run may be simple or complex, but either way, they should be addressed. Are you trying to run for fitness goals, to de-stress, or to motivate others? It can help you understand whether running is a priority for you and also help you really understand your needs. Reinforcing why you started can help you find even more reasons to stick with it.

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