You’ve done it! You finally started running. Now, it’s the next step, making running a habit. Here are steps to make this sport a lifestyle and not be one of those one-timers.
1. Evaluate your commitment level and schedule availability.
Set the important priorities and those that you can forego for running. Know how much time do you have to run.
2. Schedule your runs.
Before each week, plan the days and time of your runs. I suggest doing it at least 3 times a week, preferably with rest days in between.
3. Make this a routine for at least 3 months.
Consistency is most important and studies shows that it takes 66 days for a behavior to become a habit. Make it 90 days.
4. Find time for make up runs.
If you missed a scheduled run, make sure you replace it immediately. Foregoing even 1 run leads to a bad habit. Next thing you know, you’ve already missed a week.
5. Enjoy!
Running is a repititive sport so losing fun will come. Make sure you enjoy the journey and find ways to motivate yourself. Treat yourself, run with friends, make a diary, share your stories or use social media. Anything that would make run more.
