When a slump comes on
I wouldn't yet call it a slump, but my motivation for exercise is waning a bit. I think it's connected to the early- morning rising I've been doing for a few months. I've been hopping out of bed at 5:30 AM each week day to run and such before all the people in my house are awake. I really like the jump I get on the day. But I think it's wearing on me. I know this because I'm sleeping later and later and cutting down on the time I have to accomplish my workouts. Maybe I need to ditch the morning thing for a while. Maybe I just need a kick-start. Something like what follows.- Maybe I need to train for something, like a 5K or a 15K, something to keep me focused and goal-oriented.
- Maybe I need to keep records and chart my daily accomplishments. This way, I can challenge myself to do more, to do better, or to just keep plugging away.
- Maybe I need to create a personal "reasons list." You know, a list of why I exercise: Too stay healthy, to fit into my clothes, to show my kids I'm dedicated to physical fitness. This might keep my head in the game.
- Maybe I need new running shoes. I love shoes.
- Maybe I need to switch up my tunes. Music drives me. I've been listening to the same songs on my MP3 player for a long time now. Perhaps it's time for a change.
- Maybe I need a reward. If I get that tummy tuck I keep mentioning, I'll have all the reward I'll need. If I don't get it, maybe a pedicure will do.
- Maybe I need a break. If I get that tummy tuck I keep mentioning, I'll have a nice long break. If I don't get it, maybe taking a day off here and there will recharge my batteries.
What do you do to keep your slumps at bay?
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
3-28-2008 @ 12:44PM
rachel.smith said...
it is so funny you posted on this because I was in a slump the last week. I finally got up at 5AM and made myself excersize this morning. I find the big thing for me is getting bored. Bored of my music, bored of the same workout, bored of the same run. When I switch it up, it makes a HUGE difference. Today I listened to new tunes and tomorrow, I cant wait to go to the gym to jam out to them again! I think that is the biggest motivator for me. If I have songs that make me want to sing along and dance, where/when else is a better time that on your run. Works everytime!
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3-28-2008 @ 12:44PM
Vishaal said...
DEFINITELY switch up the tunes. Also, just stop thinking about getting up early and running...just DO it. I'm serious. It's like when you wake up, you brush your teeth without thinking. You'll get out of the slump soon enough. Just DO it. =) You'll be surprised how you feel it you just don't think about it.
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3-28-2008 @ 12:45PM
carlabirnberg said...
Im all about the new shoes (HEART the NIKE so if you need help spending any money let me know :))
I completely would have a slump were it not my ONLY trashy magazine (hello star!) and email returning time.
that said maybe a short break? it's tough burning the candle at both ends for more than a week...
C.
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3-28-2008 @ 7:43PM
Tamara said...
I run outside, and whenever I hit a slump I ask a friend to try a new route with me, or go run a route in her neighborhood. It works every time. Also, if you can stand it, try running without headphones every once in a while, it definitely changes the work out.
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3-28-2008 @ 7:48PM
Drewboy said...
Cross-training helps a lot. Karate, strength training, cycling, and running are all on my plate. Sometimes I work out twice a day, but if I'm very tired, I rest.
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