Training is in full swing for Team Abu Dhabi Week, and we’re getting excited about the Abu Dhabi Striders 10K/Half Marathon coming 5th November. Looking for some ways to stay motivated? Look for ways to stick with the habit of running.

• Find a partner: You’re a lot more likely to stick with your programme if you have to be accountable to someone else – plus it’s a lot more fun.
• It gets easier: If it seems like you’ll never enjoy running, keep in mind that if you stick with it, your body will adapt and it won’t be such a chore.
• Consistency is key: If you have to choose between running a 5K instead of an 8K or not running at all, do the shorter run. If you have to choose between running on a treadmill or not runningaat all, run on the treadmill. Just the Striders’ race, but races are happening all Sign up for race: It’s less than a month till stick with it.
• the time in the UAE. Decide how much time you need to train, then register for an event – having that date to look forward to on the calendar will give you a tangible reason to stick with it.
• Be prepared for bad days: Not every run is going to be fantastic, but on the days when the run just isn’t in your heart, remember those days when running makes you feel like you can fly.
• Don’t compare yourself with others: Unless you’re a professional runner, even on race day, you’re ultimately running against the finish line and your own best time.
• Just do it: Nike made a lot of money with that slogan because a lot of athletes know that if you give your workout too much thought, you can talk yourself right out of it. Establish a time that works for you, put on your shoes and go before you can over think the task.
• Don’t worry about your weight: One of the great side benefits of running is weight loss, but losing weight shouldn’t be your only – or even your first – reason for running. You may not lose weight as quickly as you’d hoped, or you may start thinking that running is an excuse to over eat. Instead, focus on other reasons for running like fitness, the challenge and the joy of the road.