In my previous post I discussed the dangers of running compulsively and exercise addiction in general. The first step in conquering any addictive behavior is, of course, recognizing and admitting that it is indeed a compulsion.
Recognizing, Then Breaking a Running Addiction
In order to break a running-dependency, you need to re-examine your relationship to health and fitness. Ask yourself, “Why am I running?”. If you’re exercising for your health, then why are you always so exhausted? If you’re training for competitive goals, remind yourself that rest is essential to peak performance. Above all, as much as you may love it, running is only one part of a balanced life.
Finding a Balance
1. Listen to your body, respectfully responding when it says “I’m too tired and achy to run today”.
2. Schedule rest days into your program. That way, you’re in control of when you run as well as when you don’t and you can plan for it.
3. Try other forms of exercise (preferably low-impact) to balance your running: cycling to strengthen your quads, yoga to improve your flexibility, swimming or weight training to increase your upper body power, deep water exercise to improve core strength and overall fitness.
4. Don’t let your running performance determine your self-worth.
5. Don’t rely on running to maintain your emotional well-being. Consider seeking professional psychological assistance if necessary.
6. Run with others who share your passion, but also have full lives outside of running.
Those of us who love to run know how much it enriches our lives, but it’s important to keep it in perspective and respect it. Our bodies are meant for activities besides just putting one foot in front of the other. Maintain a healthy respect for your ability to run and, above all, don’t abuse the privilege.
Run Long and Be Well,
Carolyn
In my previous post I discussed the dangers of running compulsively and exercise addiction in general. The first step in conquering any addictive behavior is, of course, recognizing and admitting that it is indeed a compulsion.
Recognizing, Then Breaking a Running Addiction
In order to break a running-dependency, you need to re-examine your relationship to health and fitness. Ask yourself, “Why am I running?”. If you’re exercising for your health, then why are you always so exhausted? If you’re training for competitive goals, remind yourself that rest is essential to peak performance. Above all, as much as you may love it, running is only one part of a balanced life.
Finding a Balance
1. Listen to your body, respectfully responding when it says “I’m too tired and achy to run today”.
2. Schedule rest days into your program. That way, you’re in control of when you run as well as when you don’t and you can plan for it.
3. Try other forms of exercise (preferably low-impact) to balance your running: cycling to strengthen your quads, yoga to improve your flexibility, swimming or weight training to increase your upper body power, deep water exercise to improve core strength and overall fitness.
4. Don’t let your running performance determine your self-worth.
5. Don’t rely on running to maintain your emotional well-being. Consider seeking professional psychological assistance if necessary.
6. Run with others who share your passion, but also have full lives outside of running.
Those of us who love to run know how much it enriches our lives, but it’s important to keep it in perspective and respect it. Our bodies are meant for activities besides just putting one foot in front of the other. Maintain a healthy respect for your ability to run and, above all, don’t abuse the privilege.
Run Long and Be Well,
Carolyn