BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Develop a Routine for Accountability

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about how developing a running routine can help you hold yourself accountable when you can't run with a group. So, as you all know, "official" Bass Pro training started Saturday. And, as expected, the initial training group was large. But as training becomes more tedious, some of those runners/walkers that were on fire will gradually lose their motivation and drop out of training. As a long-time running coach, I will tell you that there a lot of factors that lead to this loss of motivation but one of the main ones is the lack of self-accountability a person has for those solo runs taking place during the week. 

If that has you saying, "That's me! I will be doing my runs solo during the week and I don't want to be one of those runners who drop out," then start developing your running routine today, knowing that it will be your number one accountability buddy and partner when you’re solo. Your training schedule has already been laid out by the fine folks at Ozark Mountain Ridge Runners with the 'big picture' (aka race day) in mind. There's a group run on Saturdays with a lot of "on your own" runs throughout the week. And this is where you’ll need that self accountability. Taking into consideration that no one's life is the same, remember that your running routine might not look like the routines of the others in the group since you’re in charge of making it. We all have different variables to consider when making a routine that we can stick with. But start developing yours by determining the following: 

1. What's the best time to run that will ensure that I'm consistent? 

Because of the timing of the group run which is also your longest run, the weekly run days are not very flexible in the overall schedule but the time you choose to do them are. So, take a good look at your current life schedule, factoring in those things that have to be done at a certain time. For instance, you'll have to work in your runs in a time block that allows you to get to work on time. And then there's dinner to be made, kids to be picked up, etc.... Take into account all of these life factors (writing them down if you need to) and then determine what the best time to run is going to be. Running at the same time for every run will exponentially increase your chances of sticking with the program for so many reasons. 

2.  What steps can I take to ensure that I will have the time to complete the runs? 

If you're like me, you're limited on time so this question is very important. Fifteen minutes here, five minutes there, and 10 minutes doing something that's not important can quickly eat up your running time. Tweak your schedule to cut out anything that's not necessary (TV time, scrolling social media, gaming, etc.) to make time for your workouts. Keep your water bottles (or bladder) filled up and chilled and have your clothes picked out and set aside so you'll be ready to run at the appointed time. Prep your meals at night and have your work clothes and gear charged and ready to go as well. This will give you extra time in the morning. 

3. What rewards will I give myself for staying consistent? 

There are lots of things you can give yourself (check out this previous blog), but make sure you reward yourself for every daily run completed, every long run finished, every month you've stayed consistent, and then collect the ultimate reward for completing the race on race day. While that might look different for everyone, my rewards are an iced coffee after every daily run, a lunch date (referred to as Saturdates) after the Saturday long run (my husband is also a runner we enjoy the reward together), a massage once a month, and then collecting my medal at the finish line and celebrating with my friends. Having something that you will reward yourself with at various increments will increase your personal accountability. 

 

And there you have it friends. Holding your own self accountable will not only ensure that you complete the training it takes to make it to the Bass Pro finish line but will make you successful in other parts of your life as well. So develop a routine you can stick to and then stick to it. You'll be so glad you did come race day. Happy Running!