April Showers Bring May Flowers…well unfortunately it’s May 2nd and raining in NYC, so while I’d love to hit up Central Park for a little post-work run, it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen today. Hopefully the sun will be shining soon and I can put into practice 5 Running Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Outdoor Run.
My favorite from this list is #4:
Have a plan: Whether you are stepping out of your house for the first time or picking up from you left off in the fall, your first action should be with your hand. Write down your daily goals and focus! This, may sound like I am trying to complicate the simple joy of running, however, each step should be positive forward progression and that starts with your written commitment. Here’s an example: day 1: Goal – 30-minute run around loop. Once you’ve done the workout write: Completed. Light rain. Felt good. When you confirm your goal and commit yourself to a plan there is immediate action taken and greater joy when you can go back and see what you have completed, how you felt, and how you are growing as a runner. Many bookstores sell running logs, or you can keep track of your running schedule in your daily planner.
I personally take this beyond daily goals and like to make larger goals for myself, ensuring I stay on track long-term. Just this weekend I made a new goal. I’ve been running a bunch of NYRR races in Central Park and am happy to say that my time continues to drop, hovering just above an 8-minute mile right now. My newest goal is to run at least ONE of these NYRR races (they are usually 4-6 miles) at a sub 8 mile per hour pace. Stay tuned…next race is on May 11!
