New Years Resolutions

Like the majority of the population, one of your New Year's resolutions is most likely related to health and fitness. So we thought we would share a few tips on making sure you reach your running goals for 2014.

They say to start how you mean to go on, and setting realistic goals is the best way to ensure you stick to your resolutions.

The resolution - Start running regularly

Step 1.

OK, firstly swap the TV remote for a pen and paper (or tablet for those tech addicts out there). A great way to plan your runs is to create a schedule. You may want to start with 3 or 4, 15- to 20- minute runs per week. This will quickly build up your fitness, but won't be too strenuous, meaning that you are more likely to stick to your schedule. 

Step 2.

So now you have your weekly running schedule your ready to brave that first run. You may wish to start off with a brisk walk to warm up. Remember that its not a race and more about achieving your personal goals. Also some people find running with a friend can be motivating, but that is personal preference. If you a relatively new to running you can start off running for one minute and walking for 3 and so on until you reach the full 20 minutes. 

Step 3.

Once you have completed your first run you can map your achievement on a progress chart. This will fuel motivation as you see your abilities broaden. Make sure you stick it to a wall, door or fridge where you can easily see all of your hard work. You should also reward your hard work with some new running gear, a pedicure, or any other treat you would enjoy.

Step 4.

After the first week or two you will start to learn more about yourself and your running preferences. You may notice that certain factors trigger you off times, such as bad weather, darker evenings or not having a particular race to work towards. It is important to recognise this and to actively work on over coming it, or finding something else to motivate you when you are tempted to skip a run. 

So remember these points to allow you to reach your running goals in 2014

• Write down your goals and weekly schedule
• Make sure you don't take on too much, and that your goals a realistic
• Make your goals known to your family and friends to encourage you to stick to them
• Keep a running journal or progress chart
• Keep organised
• Reward yourself each week
• Find support that works for you