When things are going really well during training, it’s hard to imagine needing any extra motivation to run. Times like these – in the midst of training, when you’re feeling really strong – are easy to get out the door. Excitement is high and finding running motivation comes easily. But what happens when life gets in the way and you find yourself with low motivation to run?

No matter how much I love running, there always comes a time when finding motivation is tough. Getting out the door after a long day or when the weather is bad is so much more challenging than days where time and energy feel endless. Understanding that running motivation will inevitably decrease at some point during training is a fact that all lifelong runners eventually come to terms with.

So what happens when the cold weather doesn’t seem to end, our energy is zapped from work, or we just want to stay on the couch for the rest of the day?

We need a little running motivation to get by.

There is nothing I love more than simple reminders about why this sport is so great; whether they come in the midst of a high point, or a time when maintaining running motivation feels impossible. These simple reminders help keep my problems in perspective and remind me why I started running in the first place.

Sometimes these reminders are enough to keep us inspired to run, while other times require some extra motivation. Whether you’re battling a busy season of life, running burnout, crummy weather, or just low energy – this page will help you regain motivation to run and remember why you started in the first place.

The Ultimate Source of Running Motivation

Running Motivation: Books

“Mile Markers” by Kristin Armstrong

I have read this book 3 times and still get something new out of it every time. Reading this book feels like I’m talking to a friend! Kristin’s stories are so easy to relate to and make me want to throw on my running shoes and head out the door. This book combines a bunch of separate stories, showing us a glimpse into Kristin’s life and how running has helped her through everything; from the most mundane, to the darkest moments in her life.

“My Life on the Run” by Bart Yasso

This book really puts all of my running “problems” in perspective. Reading what Bart has been through was incredibly eye opening and humbling. This book is a great mix of so many emotions, and definitely left me feeling more excited about running than ever before. I think it’s time to read it again!

“The Long Run” by Matt Long

I read this book quite a few years ago but have never forgotten it. It’s not a classic “running” book, but touches on so many things that relate to any sort of physical activity. The author, Matt, was hit by a bus while riding his bike in New York City. He describes his struggles to regain physical independence through many challenges and incredible perseverance. I cannot even imagine what he must have gone through. His story is incredibly inspiring!

Running Motivation: Reminders

Inspirational Shoe Lace Tags

I personally don’t have any of these, but I see them often at races and love the idea. It would be so great to have your mantra on your shoe laces as a nice little reminder anytime you look down. I think I will be getting these very soon!

Mantra Bracelets

I have a bracelet similar to this that says “pain is temporary”. I love these kind of reminders when times get tough and it’s easy to get caught up in the struggle. Wearing a mantra on your wrist helps keep you focused on the big picture when you need it the most!

Any of Brooks “Run Happy” clothes🙂

Running Inspiration: Articles & Motivation

These are some of my favorites! Low running motivation can appear for many different reasons. Maybe you’re suffering from burnout, have no race goals, are feeling pointless, struggling to keep up, or life is just getting in the way. Whatever the case, these articles will keep you inspired and help maintain motivation to run when times get tough.

• 15 Amazing Reasons to Run
• 26.2 Things Runners Love
• What to Know When Achieving Your Goals Feels Out of Reach
• 5 Ways to Overcome Low Running Motivation
• 4 Signs of Running Burnout (And How to Recover)
• How to Make Time for Running

Running Motivation: Quotes

Feeling motivated and want to accomplish some new running goals?

Here are a few running resources to check out:

• 13.1 Tips to Make Your Next Half Marathon Awesome
• How to Progress from a Half Marathon to a Full
• So You Want to Run Your First Marathon
• The 3 Best Running Workouts to Increase Speed