I find it easier to head out the door after getting home from work than trying to run before. Waking up for work is hard enough for me without trying to get up even earlier to hit the pavement.
Running the in afternoon may actually be the ideal time of day for our bodies. Our body's core temperature and lung function peak in the middle of the day.
Running in the afternoon, however, presents its own challenges such as after work fatigue, higher temperatures, and a laundry list of to-do items. Here are five tips that can help you beat the afternoon slump and decreased motivation.
1. Have your clothes ready for when you get home. I have a million things I need to do when I get home, and if I'm pulling out my running clothes and gear, I can easily get distracted and before I know it run out of running time.
2. Head out as soon as you get home. When I get home from work I quickly walk the dogs and then immediately head out the door. If I sit down for even a short moment, I have a hard time getting back up. Stay motivated for your afternoon run by writing down your run in your calendar, tell a friend your running plans or read some of your favorite blogs on your lunch break!
3. Hydrate throughout your day.
4. Eat lunch about 2-3 hours before you plan to go out. Make lunch your main meal with proteins and whole grains to fuel yourself for your run.
5. Give your body at least 10 minutes to warmup to the run. Try to plan a run you enjoy after work, such as your favorite route or by interesting scenery. Don't plan your hardest speed workout right after a hard day of work. Adjust your running schedule to boost your motivation for heading out the door as soon as you get home.
Do you prefer to run morning, afternoon, or night?
What is the longest you have run after work?
--I've managed 12 miles once. 10 is my happy maximum.
