Whether you're running, walking or jogging your Samarathon miles, here's our top tips for staying motivated, fitting in the miles and for building mental and physical resilience.
Fitting in the miles
Break up the distance
You don’t have to complete your 26.2 miles in one go (though go for it if you’re feeling really motivated!). Plenty of Samarathoners are taking on a mile per day, but you can do more or less, depending on how you feel.
Stay prepared
Lay out your favourite workout gear and a snack the night before a morning run, or keep a bag packed with running clothes and shoes to take on the go, so you can make the most of any opportunity to run.
Seize the day!
If you’re an early riser, try and squeeze in a run or jog first thing.
Set a time
Samarathon is flexible around your schedule, but choosing a time you’ll go for a run, walk or jog helps you develop a routine that works for you.
Let people know
Telling your family and friends you’re going out to rack up some Samarathon miles helps to protect your exercise schedule and keep you accountable (you’re much more likely to go out if everyone knows about it!).
Top tips to stay motivated
Remember, it’s mind over matter!
Even if you really don’t feel like going out, try putting on your running shoes and walking to the end of the street. Then you can decide whether to go home or go further (most of the time you’ll feel like going further!).
Create a playlist
Research suggests that listening to music while you run can boost your pace by up to 15%. Try listening to the community’s top running songs next time you go out. Or use it as inspiration for your own playlist.
Spread the word about your challenge
Sharing progress updates on your Samarathon challenge will help to keep you accountable and on track to complete your challenge. So, keep sharing your story, your training photos, your mileage updates and shout about any fundraising milestones on your fundraising page.
Make it extra challenging
Completing Samarathon is already an incredible achievement but giving yourself goals along the way can help you stay motivated. Why not try beating your personal best over a certain distance or increasing your furthest walking distance or elevation?
Take a break
Rest is important for preventing injuries and staying motivated.
Treat yourself!
Celebrate your mileage and fundraising milestones – you deserve it! Whether you treat yourself with some new running gear, a warm bath, or do absolutely nothing at all! - don’t forget to congratulate yourself for everything you’ve achieved.
Tips for mental and physical resilience
Find your mantra
Finding your mantra for when things get tough on a run or you’re lacking motivation can really help you make that last push! Try out some different words and phrases to find what works for you.
Take walk breaks
If you plan to run most of your Samarathon miles, there’s no shame in alternating between walking and running – it really helps!
Remind yourself why you’re taking part
Reminding yourself of your inspiration for taking part in Samarathon, and the huge difference you’re making, can give you the push you need to get through a tough training session or those last few steps.
Visualise your challenge
However you’re doing Samarathon, imagining yourself completing a run, jog or walk is a great way of staying on-track. Picture yourself completing your mileage goal, posing for your finish line photo, and what you’ll do to celebrate!