Why do I love running?

This morning I woke up to a scheduled run and I DID NOT want to go! I had planned a run with my father, and was far too proud to admit I was reluctant to go, so I donned my leggings and trainers and dragged myself out the door.

My legs were protesting, my back felt stiff and my head most definitely wanted to go back on it's pillow! Why would I do this to myself!?

It could be the feeling of being outside with the wind rushing past, or the feel of the varied surfaces under my trainers. Perhaps it's the camaraderie of running with someone, barely managing to talk and matching up your stride pattern. It might be the endorphins kicking in half way through the run, injecting more bounce in your step and spreading a smile on your face (much to the amazement of passers by) - but I LOVE running, EVEN when it's the last thing I FEEL like doing.

As exercise becomes more a part of your daily routine, the fitter you become. The fitter you are, the better you are at producing endorphins (feel good hormones). The more endorphins you produce, the more likely you are to exercise. It's a virtuous and rewarding cycle to kick start!

So what can you do on those mornings and moments when last thing you feel like doing is squeezing yourself into your running gear and working up a sweat? One most effective and simple step is simply putting on your workout clothes and trainers. Your body is then psycologically prepared for action - even if it is just a walk round the block. Also making a prior agreement with a running partner makes it difficult to pull out at the last minute - another motivation to get yourself going to the workout.

This morning my body was telling me to go back to sleep! However, with my trainers already on my feet, and a running partner waiting for me, it was that little bit easier to put my toes out the door. And thanks to endorphins, not for a moment did I regret my morning run!