We’ve all been there: the dreaded running plateau. It’s the point we reach after some really incredible training blocks where we just can’t seem to make any forward progress. We get mad, upset, and even question why we’re running at all! Not to worry: we can break through that plateau and get to the other side! Here’s how!
Change Things Up
A running plateau is a frustrating thing: you’ve put in so much hard work and you don’t feel like you’re getting anywhere. One possible solution is to make a change in your workouts. It can be something subtle, like switching speedwork for hills. Or it can be more dramatic, like getting off the treadmill and taking it outside. Speed up, slow down, try new socks or even new shoes. A little creativity can help you mix things up to get it all moving in the right direction.
Relocate
When you find your training turns stagnant, a possible solution is to move your training. Pick up and find a new place to run. I promise that a change of scenery will invigorate you and be the jumpstart you need. Trade a suburban neighborhood for the beach, or your city streets for some trails. Even reversing your regular routes might be enough to get you back on track.
Adjust Your Goals
It’s possible that you might need to adjust your goals in order to muster up the motivation to push through your plateau. Please don’t consider this failure or surrender. Instead, it’s taking a little detour to make room for something greater.
Check In + Give Yourself A Pep Talk
Sometimes stress and outside factors can wreak havoc on your running. When you find your legs heavy and your motivation low, check in with yourself to see if you can’t find a deeper cause. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and fueling your body appropriately. It’s always a good idea to take care of yourself as best you can, so regular check ins are always a great idea.
Rest and Reset
Sometimes, the answer is to just take a break. We reach a point where our bodies tell us to rest. And while coming to a full stop isn’t really optimal in a training cycle, we should always listen to our bodies. Slow it down and collect yourself. Give yourself a few days or even a few weeks to restore the running bug. Then lace up and head back out there.
How do you overcome your running pleateaus?
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I am feeling this one right now. Plateau or off a cliff? I’m blaming the relentless humidity but definitely need to adjust some goals for fall, I think!
The humidity makes it soooo hard.
I’ve been at a plateau for awhile. lol
I agree with all your suggestions.
For be, I have to have a race or three on my schedule
I do need to get a race on the calendar.
All good suggestions – especially to change up your routine!
Changes always help.