Ask Kikay Runner: Motivation

This is a section on my blog where I answer questions people ask me. If you have any questions for future Ask Kikay Runner entries, email me, tweet me, or leave me a message on the Kikay Runner Facebook page.

Mae Ann asks: Hi kikay runner! I would like to inquire if you do one on one training for free as I badly needed [sic] someone who can train and motivate me and help me get back in shape. Maybe I could join you when you run. I got interested into [sic] running and triathlon as I wanted to start having a healthy living [sic]. I wish you could help me.

Hi Mae Ann! I’m not a coach and don’t train people, but I can relate with the need for motivation. I consider myself a self-starter with plenty of motivation from within, which is why I usually train solo, but there are days I need someone to get me off the couch.

This motivational someone doesn’t necessarily have to be a coach. I find that my friends are just as effective. I have to show up at an early morning training session because they’re all there and waiting for me. If I’m signed up for a race that someone else from the group is also doing, they ask me how my training is going; this makes me want to train just so I have something to report. 🙂 Last weekend I joined a group run, which was a great refresher for me mentally and socially.

http://instagram.com/p/jAkq90veJR/

If you’re trying to get fit through running and are just starting out, Cool Running’s Couch-to-5K running program gives you a very doable schedule of three runs a week. You can start doing this with a friend or a group of friends. I’ll also try to find out for you about running groups you can join in your area.

I find inspiration in following the training and races of world-class athletes, and watching documentaries like Spirit of the Marathon or the yearly Kona Ironman.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANpuXzWnQ_k
Signing up for races also helps get me motivated. With a race, I have a clearly defined goal whether it’s to finish a new distance or to set a new PR, and working backwards from race day I figure out what I need to be doing for training.

What it all comes down to in the end is taking control of your own health and life and athletic destiny. You ask yourself the questions: What do I want? What am I willing to do to get it?

And then you get out there and do it.