The thought of waking up extra early to go for a run or to work out might seem a little crazy. However, once you're up and moving, you'll find that sneaking in a morning workout is a great way to start your day.
Whether you're a night owl, a morning bird or an exhausted pigeon, these tips will help motivate you to get an earlier start in the morning and incorporate working out.
Make a Plan
- Plan out your weekly workouts. If you’re just starting out running, plan out how long you’ll run and the mileage for each day. If you’ve been running for a while plan the different types of workouts you’d like to work on i.e. long runs, hills, interval, rest days, etc.
- Create a habit of working out by getting up at the same time every day. For example, wake up at 5 a.m. every morning to go work out for an hour and then go about your day.
Night Before Workout
- Get a good night's sleep! It's important to let your body rest and recover. Sleep will also help you to keep going throughout the day after a morning workout.
- Prep all the gear you will need for the next day. Set out your running shoes, watch, gym bag and anything else you may need to work out.
- Wear your t-shirt, shorts, socks and other workout clothes to bed.
- Place your alarm across the room so that you have to force yourself to get out of bed to turn it off.
- Keep a water bottle or pre-workout drink on your nightstand to drink when you wake up.
Morning of Workout
- Wake up a half hour to an hour before your workout. Allow yourself enough time to get moving and plan for drive time if necessary.
- If you can, eat a light snack and drink some water before going to work out. Try a spoonful of peanut butter or a handful of trail mix and some water.
- Enjoy breakfast or coffee after your workout.
Other Tips
- It’s okay to miss a day or two or more. Life gets crazy and some weeks are busier than others. Try to stick with your routine the best you can.
- Running and working out is more fun with friends. Plan to run with someone who will help keep you accountable and motivate you to get out of bed.
- Create a rockin’ playlist that you can jam out to while you work out.
- Sometimes paying for a class or gym membership is an extra incentive to get you moving.
- Just get up and move. Once you start running or working out then you'll want to keep going.
- Some people also find accountability by sharing their goals with friends via social media. Take a sweaty selfie for Instagram or share your weekly plan on Facebook.
Monica a former Center Grove High School runner, participates in 5K, 10K and other races.