7 Simple Every-Day Habits of Long-Term Runners

They’re in tune with their bodies

If you want to sustain your running habit, then one of the best things you can do is to cultivate simple daily practices. While every runner has their own routine and distinct way of doing things, the very best share common habits that separate them from the pack.

Here are 7 simple daily habits that long-term runners share.

1. They reduce analysis paralysis by creating a plan

They understand that overthinking can lead them to skip their run. In order to eliminate this, they plan out runs in advance; sometimes up to a year ahead.

But even the most dedicated runners know they can miss a run. Oversleeping, a late work meeting or sick child can disrupt the best laid plans. Because of this, they have backup programmes. Whether it's shortening their run or moving it to another day, they understand that done is better than perfect.

Speaking of planning; effective runners set out their clothes, shoes, water bottle and lubrication the night before. While they are at it, they charge their GPS watch and prepare a pre and post run snack.

This makes things a lot easier.

2. They understand the importance of daily movement

While not all runners have a daily running habit, one thing is certain. The need to stand, walk, and stretch frequently. Runners understand that spending time with their butts parked in chairs increases injury risks. They incorporate movement into their workday in order to curb this risk.

They take the stairs instead of the lift, pace on every call and walk to the water dispenser every hour. They anchor movement into what they are already doing.

3.They educate themselves on the sport

Billions of words, millions of hours of audio and countless movies have been made on running. And it's not surprising. The effect that running has on the body and mind is exhilarating.

Runners love to talk and read about running. From stretching routines, latest gear and gadgets, and upcoming events, we keep abreast of developments in our field.

We don't always agree, but the love of the sport binds us more than our opinions.

4. They take bedtime seriously

Long-term runners know one thing: magic happens in between the sheets. They understand that sleep is the ultimate performance hack. It is during sleep where your body and mind recharge, repairing the damage done from hard training, releasing human growth hormone to build muscles, and strengthening connections between nerves and muscles.

Runners know that cutting back on sleep has detrimental effects from weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, moodiness and increased injury risk.

Long-term runners follow a bedtime routine which enhances their sleep and optimises their recovery. They declare the hour before bedtime sacred. During this time, they unplug all their electronics, get their kids into bed and unwind with a calming activity.

This sets them up for success not only in running, but in life as well.

5.They are in tune with how their bodies feel

Runners listen to their legs. They note that hamstring tightness. They’re aware when their energy levels drop.

Runners know the difference between soreness and an injury. They keep their bodies running like a well-oiled machine. They address any squeak before it escalates.

6. They hydrate and fuel, without fail

Long-term runners develop a healthy relationship with their food. For them, water and food are fuel, not just a source of nutrition.

Runners’ diets contain a balance of protein, carbs, fats and green leafy vegetables. Protein is important because it stabilizes blood sugar and helps you feel fuller longer. Foods higher in carbohydrate content are easy to digest and provide instant fuel. The more colorful our dinner plate is, the better.

While we do enjoy basking in the glory of our runs, we refuel and hydrate as soon as possible. This is because food helps us avoid fatigue and aids in muscle recovery.

7. They tap into a social network

Runners know when their motivation starts to dip and wane. Rather than tap out completely, they reach out to other runners to keep them going. Be it in person or virtually, runners have a community of people to help them weather the dry spells.

Long-term runners know that when they’re emotionally and socially invested in their training, it’ll be harder for them to skip them.

As you progress on your running journey, remember to keep things simple. While it is important to aspire to greater heights, keep in mind the daily routines.

They form the bedrock of your running habit.