Editor’s Note: This is the first in a series of columns from Jason Yu on fitness.
Discipline and physical determination makes me a successful runner.
The question I always get form new runners and friends that think I am out of my mind is, “how do you do it?” I simply say, “I just run.” Certainly, it is deeper than that. If I had to break it down, I would simply suggest two things:
• Discipline (mental and physical)
• Physically Determined
Discipline is a key factor whether you are training for a distance run or a goal of losing ten pounds in 2010. Think about your diet, your lifestyle, and your schedule. These are some changes you will have to make. Running is definitely about mentality and discipline, the ability to focus, have a clear and open mind, and staying positive. You will not get far if you have too much on your mind, scrambled, and unable to focus on your goal, which is crossing the finish line.
Obviously being physically determined is necessary. You do not have to be 120 lbs, lean, and skinny to be a runner and finish a marathon. However, you have to know your limits, but push yourself. I see many people give up too easily and too fast. Practice makes perfect, jog, or run at your own pace. Set up milestones, whether your goal is to run 10 miles in week one, then 20 in week two. Keeping a log of your miles and milestones will help you not only become a better runner, but help you with being both mentally disciplined and physically determined.
But I cannot do it by myself. I need someone to push me…
If you cannot train by yourself, running friends and local running groups are there to support your goals. Running with others makes your running experience better. You will be able to share hobbies, stories, and get the opportunity to make new friends. If you are more of an independent runner, make sure to take the iPod along and happy trails.
On your days off and spare time, visit running communities like RunnersWorld.com, CoolRunning.com, and my website, ThinkFastMoveFaster.com. These are great websites to help with training and to connect with fellow coaches, trainers, and runners.
As lame as it sounds, I say this every time before a workout and long run, “discipline and being physically determined are the foundations to becoming not only a successful runner, but achieving your goals.”
Jason Yu is Partner and Director of Marketing for Social Media Solutions in Richmond, VA. His company specializes in Social Media Strategy and Online Reputation Management. Jason enjoys keeping active by running, swimming and working out on a daily basis. Jason has ran in over fifteen running races including the Monument Avenue 10K, Philadelphia Half Distance Run, Richmond Half-Marathon, and Xterra races. Interesting facts about Jason is that he is a music fanatic, macaroni and cheese connoisseur, and aspiring “mixologist.”
Need a new exercise playlist to help you gear up for the 10k? No fear, here is what is on my latest workout playlist. An eclectic mix of today’s hip hop, pop, and electronic dance music to get you hyped and keep you in the zone:
Jason Yu is Partner and Director of Marketing for Social Media Solutions in Richmond, VA. His company specializes in Social Media Strategy and Online Reputation Management. Jason enjoys keeping active by running, swimming and working out on a daily basis. Jason has ran in over fifteen running races including the Monument Avenue 10K, Philadelphia Half Distance Run, Richmond Half-Marathon, and Xterra races. Interesting facts about Jason is that he is a music fanatic, macaroni and cheese connoisseur, and aspiring “mixologist.”
