We’ve all had those days. You set your alarm, lay out your running gear the night before, and promise yourself you’re going to hit the road at sunrise. But when morning comes, the bed feels a little too cozy, the weather seems a little too cold, and your motivation? Nowhere to be found.
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Staying motivated to run consistently isn’t always easy, but with a few fun tricks, you can get your mojo back and hit the road with a smile. Here are some tried-and-true ways to reignite that spark, even on the days when Netflix and your couch are calling louder than your running shoes.
“Music is the soundtrack of our lives… and our runs!”
1. Find Your Running Jam
Music can be the ultimate motivator. There’s something magical about the right song that can get your feet moving, even when your brain isn’t totally on board. Create a playlist that makes you feel invincible—think upbeat, energetic, and a little bit of guilty pleasure. You might even find yourself lacing up just to hear that next track!
Need a tip? Make it a game. Only let yourself listen to your favorite podcast or album while you’re running. It’s a sneaky way to make your runs feel like a treat instead of a chore.
Pro Tip: If you’re running with We Run Nairobi, suggest sharing playlists with fellow runners. You’ll discover new music and keep things fresh.
2. Run with Friends (or Make New Ones!)
Solo runs are great, but nothing boosts motivation like running with others. Whether it’s the accountability of meeting up with someone or just the simple joy of having company on the trail, running with friends can make all the difference.
And if you don’t have a running buddy, join a group like We Run Nairobi! We run for fun, fitness, and friendship, and we always welcome new members. There’s something special about being part of a community where you’re cheered on and celebrated for every mile you conquer. Plus, it’s a lot harder to hit snooze when you know people are waiting for you!
Bonus: Post-run coffee or brunch doesn’t hurt, either.
3. Set Fun, Mini-Goals
Running a marathon sounds amazing—but it can also be a little intimidating. Instead of focusing on big, long-term goals, try setting small, fun ones that you can achieve in the short term. Run for 20 minutes without stopping, try out a new route, or challenge yourself to beat your personal best on your favorite loop. Every small win counts!
You can even make it a game. Reward yourself for each goal you hit—whether it’s a smoothie after a long run or finally buying that new pair of running shoes you’ve had your eye on. Small victories make the journey more enjoyable and keep you coming back for more.
4. Make Running an Adventure
One of the best things about running is that it doesn’t have to be the same every time. Mix it up! Try trail running one week, a new urban route the next, or even a destination run through one of Nairobi’s parks. Make running feel like an adventure, not just a workout.
If you’re part of We Run Nairobi, you know we love to keep things fresh. From the vibrant city streets to the natural beauty of Karura Forest, we’re constantly exploring new paths. So if your motivation is running low, switch up the scenery and remind yourself why you love running in the first place.
5. Celebrate the Small Wins
Running isn’t just about race day or hitting major milestones—it’s about every single run you complete. The fact that you got out of bed, laced up your shoes, and made it out the door is a win in itself! So celebrate those moments. Be proud of every kilometer, every minute, every drop of sweat, because each step brings you closer to your goals.
Maybe you didn’t set a new personal best today, and maybe you took a few walking breaks—but guess what? You still ran, and that’s what matters. Keep a log of your runs and track your progress, and remember: every run is a victory, no matter how big or small.
6. Make Running Social
Social media can be a powerful tool when it comes to staying motivated. Share your runs, your goals, and your progress on your favorite platforms. You’d be surprised how much encouragement you can get from your friends and followers! Join a running group on Facebook, follow inspiring runners on Instagram, and use hashtags like #WeRunNairobi to connect with fellow runners.
And don’t forget to celebrate the wins of others in the community. We’re all in this together, and a little support can go a long way in keeping each other motivated.
7. Remember Why You Started
Sometimes, the simplest motivation is to remind yourself why you started running in the first place. Was it to get fit, clear your mind, or challenge yourself? Whatever your reason, reconnect with that feeling. Think about how great you feel after a run, how it helps you tackle your day with confidence, and how every run is a step toward a healthier, happier you.
Running is as much mental as it is physical, and sometimes all it takes is a little reflection to reignite that inner fire.
There you have it—your go-to guide for staying motivated, even when you don’t feel like running. The key is to keep it fun, mix it up, and remind yourself that every run—no matter how long or short—is a step in the right direction. And remember, at We Run Nairobi, you’re never alone on this journey. We’re in it together, cheering you on every step of the way!
Now, what are you waiting for? Lace up those shoes and hit the road. We’ll see you out there!