I personally have never been into running streaks, however I am not against them. In fact I actually think they have some merit if done right. One of my coaching clients is on a 400+ day run streak and she inspired me to give it a try for the month of January. The following 5 tips are things I learned from my run streak.
Tip # 1: You define the terms of your running streak.
Before committing to a running streak, set parameters and goals that make sense for your lifestyle. This includes setting an end date. Don’t worry you can always change the date, but it helps to have a finite period that you will run every day. This way you can celebrate reaching your goal and feel as if you accomplished something. Not setting an end date sets you up mentally to be in a position of strife and blinds you from seeing and celebrating how far you’ve come.
You determine the minimum distance that you will run each day. While Streak Runners International and the United States Running Streak Association say the minimum must be one mile, this is your streak, so you get to decide how far you will run. And you can choose to walk instead of run. You can also decide that a streak will consist of any form of daily exercise, not just running.
Tip #2: Surround yourself with supportive people
Once you commit to a streak, you should announce your goal to supportive friends and family. This will help keep you accountable and increase the likelihood of reaching your goal. Having the encouragement of supportive people will also help ward off the doubts that creep in when the negative Nellies find out what you’re doing and give you their unsolicited opinion. You can also join groups or use #runeveryday hashtags online and find new friends that have similar goals.
Tip #3: Schedule active recovery days and cross training that supports running
Use those minimum running days as a rest day. This is called active recovery. Run slow and easy…or walk if that is an acceptable parameter for you. Use these days to stretch, do yoga or strength train. If you cross train on these days, just make sure it lines up will your overall running goals. You certainly don’t want to end up injured if you are training for a race. And you want your streak to end on your terms so make wise decisions when it comes to cross training on you “rest” or active recovery days!
Tip #4: Don’t neglect your diet and make sleep a priority
Besides active recovery, your body will need additional support to repair itself. You want to eat lots of nutrient rich, anti-inflammatory foods, drink plenty of water, and limit your sugar consumption. Practice the 80/20 rule: enjoy occasional treats, but the majority of the time eat high quality foods.
Rest is also essential for adequate recovery. Do your best to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and make sure that you are getting enough sleep. Remember your body is repairing itself and generating new cells while you are asleep. Again if you want your streak to end on your terms, don’t neglect your diet and a good night’s rest!
Tip#5 Practice daily gratitude.
Express gratitude everyday for your ability to run and workout. Thank your body and our Creator for each day that you complete of your streak. Never take it for granted. There are injured runners who would love to be able to run, let alone run everyday, so celebrate yourself and be grateful!
Now it’s your turn. Have you streaked before? If so leave me a comment below and tell me about your experience!
