Maintaining motivation to exercise can be challenging for any runner – be they professional athletes or casual runners alike. Everyone experiences temporary dips in motivation due to stressful periods in life or simply getting bored of running on an identical route every time out. Setting yourself goals to work toward can also help keep motivation strong. Setting a race (such as 5Ks or half marathons) or setting out an individual monthly mileage goal are effective ways of keeping you focused on what’s ahead. Finding a Support Group Leaning on friends or family to stay motivated when running solo can be tough is an excellent way to maintain motivation and stay on the right path. Find people in your area training for similar distance races, and develop an appropriate schedule. Watching a Movie Before Running Need some motivation or need extra push? Watching an inspiring movie may provide just the boost you need to finish your run without making excuses or giving up halfway. It will also help prepare mentally for what lies ahead and avoid making excuses! Making Time to Run Planning out Your Gear Laying out all of your running clothes and gear the night before your run can give an extra boost of motivation when you wake up in the morning, as well as make excuses less likely – because everything needed for running has already been set aside!
Women’s Running Community There is a flourishing, diverse running community around the globe which is breaking barriers and celebrating difference. From being the first woman to run Boston to creating national trail running groups for women – these women are making history while shaping the world in their own unique ways. Verna Volker, a Navajo runner, established Native Women Running as a social media page to connect with other Navajo women who share her passion for running. After noting a disconnect between what was seen on social media and traditional running media sources, she set out to create an inclusive space. She noted the goal is to provide a space where people can come together in a supportive manner rather than competitive. One runner shared that they were running to advocate for Every Child Matters and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). Lindsay Lucrezi founded Trail Sisters out of her belief that trail running was underrepresented in media outlets, and women should have more of a say when it came to which trails are covered and how coverage is improved. Since its founding, over 13,000 members and 164 local chapters across the U.S. have become members. Bonie Shupe is co-founder of Ibex Merino Clothing Co, an ethically-sourced merino clothing brand with certified Climate Neutral status.
Running is an activity enjoyed by both men and women alike, serving as an excellent way to build strength, enhance health, have fun, meet people and make lasting friendships. Women-only races have seen increased participation due to an increase in popularity; in 2012 alone, 56% of road race finishers were female finishers. Running has transformed many runners into competitive and self-disciplined individuals, which has benefits in other aspects of their lives. Racing allows runners to access an assertive yet goal-setting side of themselves that can contribute to workplace success. Girls on the Run Minnesota offers women-only 5K and 10K runs in the Twin Cities, with proceeds supporting their mission of empowering young girls through running. You will receive a long-sleeve technical race T-shirt as a thank you gift! Zooma Women’s Running Series offers destination travel races in scenic locales like Cape Cod, Bermuda and Amelia Island in Florida ranging from 5Ks to half marathons – providing runners with an opportunity to experience these beautiful places while testing their athleticism! These green races give runners a fantastic way to appreciate these sights while simultaneously challenging themselves through race distance options that range from 5K to half marathon. Studies reveal estrogen as one of the key contributors to women outpacing men in ultramarathon races. Scientists tracked ultrarunning times over two decades and discovered that women typically ran races of 200 miles more quickly on average than their male counterparts.
Women’s Running Challenges can help keep you on the right path when it comes to your training or exploring something new! With challenges tailored specifically for female runners, these competitions provide an engaging way of adding variety and fun to your routine while improving performance, making running more fulfilling, enjoyable, and enriching every aspect of life. Running Five Times per Week for 30 Days (Distance is Unimportant) A common goal among new runners or those returning after an absence is increasing their frequency of running. This challenge can help newcomers and seasoned veterans alike to establish more regular workout habits while staying in shape. Run Without Headphones for a Week or Two If you’re new to running without headphones, this is an excellent way to reconnect with the experience of running without them and hear nature more clearly around you – which should provide extra motivation! Negative Splits for 30 Days The goal of this running challenge is to get every run faster than its predecessor – whether that means increasing by one second per mile or 30 second gains over 30 days. There are countless women-specific races that place special importance on thoughtful details, like necklaces instead of medals at the finish line and offering specific swag designed specifically for female racers – features which reflect what these events believe women need from races. But these events have reached saturation point according to Kristin Jacobson, associate professor of women’s gender and sexuality studies at Stockton College.
Women’s Running Events With more women running than ever before, there is an increasing variety of races geared specifically towards their unique needs and interests. From obstacle course races to half marathons and fun runs, these events can inspire and motivate any runner! Women Marathon Runners Since the first Olympics were held in 1896, distance running has come a long way. Although women participated in some track and field events at that time, distance running remained predominantly male until 1984 when American Joan Benoit Samuelson won her marathon race at Los Angeles Olympic. Princess Races Disney’s princess-themed races offer fun, colorful events for novice runners or those returning after taking an extended hiatus from running. Race options include 5k “Walk”, 10k and half marathon distances. Divas Runs The Divas Race Series encompasses about 10 events throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Entry includes a pink tutu, sparkling tiara, and crown-shaped medal. Join SHAPE and New York Road Runners in Central Park for one of the nation’s most legendary races: SHAPE Women’s Half-Marathon NYC. Thousands of women participate each year to get fit, meet friends and celebrate women. Yokohama International Women’s Marathon The Yokohama International Women’s marathon stands out as a unique event as one of only a few women-only full marathons in Asia. Starting and ending at Yamashita Park, this 13.1-mile course passes through Shin-sugita, Honmoku and Minatomirai before returning back into Yamashita Park for its finish.
Running is one of the purest sports you can participate in, be it setting a personal record around your neighborhood loop or conquering a marathon. Running can provide life-giving exercise that helps you push through tough workouts and meet challenges both personally and professionally. Are You Running and Need Some Motivation to Keep Going? Check Out These Women Running Quotes that Will Inspire Your Next Run Lynn Blackstone, Jane Muhrke, Liz Francechini, Cathy Miller, Pat Barrett and Nina Kuscsik signed up to run in 1972’s New York City marathon as members of The NYC Six. Though allowed to start 10 minutes prior to men, when the gun went off they all sat down in protest of its discriminatory rules and refused to begin running at that momentous moment in history. founder Nicole DeBoom possesses a passion for running and is dedicated to making it more inclusive. Her Instagram account showcases both her own runs as well as pictures from travels around the globe, offering running inspiration and motivation. Kelly Roberts is an upbeat blogger and self-described “run hater”, using humor and selfies to discuss her running journey in an approachable manner. Her posts often foster feelings of friendship and support within her growing community. Run Like a Girl Global Community With more than 46,500 members worldwide, this women-only running community offers runners an excellent way to connect and remain inspired. Join fellow runners as you post running tips, articles and upcoming events; share personal goals or training plans; or simply ask other users for their perspective!
Women and Running as Work-Life Balance Many women report that running is an excellent way to strike a healthy balance between work and personal life, improving mood and fitness while simultaneously decreasing anxiety levels and providing a sense of well-being. Study results indicated that women’s running time was often compromised by work and family commitments – suggesting society must do more to prioritize exercise for women. Dr Sara MacBride-Stewart of Cardiff University’s Sustainable Places Research Institute and School of Social Sciences led this investigation with Run 4 Wales.
Music can provide much-needed motivation during long runs, even when energy reserves have depleted themselves. A 2015 Harvard Medical School study suggests that an effective playlist could make a world of difference. No matter if it’s your first time out or you have been running for years, having an encouraging playlist can keep you going strong. Running requires mental strength that cannot be easily broken; therefore songs that bolster mental fortitude will only strengthen performance further. The Linda Lindas: Oh! Los Angeles four-piece The Linda Lindas offer up a lively, punky sound to add some excitement and motivation during any slowdown or stretching stages of your run. Their quirky tunes will keep your attention focused while giving much-needed motivation during slower or stretching stages of the workout. Bloc Party – “Oh!” There’s nothing quite as thrilling as hearing an amazing band play at their peak; Linda Lindas are no different; their thrilling guitar riffs from their 2002 album The End are enough to make any runner want to run! Rilo Kiley: Breakin’ Up Jenny Lewis of Rilo Kiley has the voice of an indie princess; her catchy lyrics and addictive melody will keep your running motivation strong. Listening to Problem – Ariana Grande can provide just enough relief from your run’s discomfort to help get you over that last uphill stretch and finish strong. Its infectious beat will provide that extra edge necessary for victory.
If you’re searching for the perfect podcast to listen to while running, there are a variety of choices out there for you. Some are hosted by runners themselves while others feature interviews with experts in various fields; marathoners will find something useful while general fitness enthusiasts could benefit as well. Here are some great women’s running podcasts designed specifically to get them amped for their next run! Not Your Average Runner The Not Your Average Runner podcast is tailored specifically to women looking for ways to start running without breaking a sweat – no matter their age or size! Certified running and life coach Jill Angie brings her real-world expertise and coaching savvy, providing practical strategies for making running a fun way of getting fitter without stressing about getting started in running. Not Your Average Runner addresses some of the more subtle factors that make running difficult for women, including menstruation and lack of self-confidence. Each episode offers helpful advice for getting through your next long run – regardless of whether it’s your first or 100th. Citius Mag Are you an enthusiast of track and field? Sports Illustrated writer Chris Chavez has just the podcast for you: Chris Chavez has an eye for interviewing big names such as Galen Rupp or Des Linden; while also delving deeper into NCAA regulations or Bowerman Track Club practices.
No matter if it’s your New Year’s resolution to run more or you simply need some inspiration, a running blog is an invaluable source. Many runners share their experiences, tips and tricks in these blogs so that it’s easy for anyone to follow along and see the progression. These Women’s Running Blogs to Follow will offer tips and advice on how to stay motivated, maintain training schedules and improve running technique. Plus you’ll learn about choosing appropriate gear and managing injuries! Your running journey starts here with us! Browse physiology, sports psychology, workout design and the science of adaptations articles as well as high-quality running action shots and top gear and shoe reviews submitted by runners from around the world. Trail Sisters is an online community for female runners that strives to provide a supportive space where runners can share experiences, get help when necessary and learn from each other’s successes and failures. She RUNS This Town is an online community comprised of over 800 chapters worldwide dedicated to supporting and empowering female runners. Their comprehensive blog features articles covering everything from postpartum running tips and injury prevention techniques, all the way up to training for your first marathon! Badass Lady Gang is another online running community dedicated to women runners that offers information, support and community for female runners. Their tagline reads, “A running community made by women for women.” Laura Fountain, an internationally-recognized runner, provides this blog to assist intermediate level runners take their running game to the next level. Her advice can increase running motivation and get you ready for your next big race.
