QT: It’s Ok to Take a Little Break from Running

For a lot of runners, the idea of willingly taking a break from running is a non-starter.

At least I assume it is, because I’m one of those runners.

But for some of us? Voluntarily taking a running break could be the best thing you can do for yourself.

And if you’re struggling to do so, I’m here to tell you it’s ok to take a little break from running.

Not You? No Worries.

Before we dive into the reasons you might want to consider stepping away from the sport for a bit, a word to those that can’t even fathom the idea.

This post isn’t for you.

And by you I mean us.

At this point in my life, I can’t imagine a scenario where the best thing that I could do for myself would be to not run for an extended period of time.

All the calamitous scenarios that I can think of?

I can’t come up with a single one where running wouldn’t play a part in helping me work through the situation at hand.

If that rings true to you, then by all means keep on keeping on.

Keep logging your miles, clearing your head, and building your base one run at a time.

But if that’s not you?

If life has got you stretched to the point where something has got to give, and running might just be that thing, then this post/episode is for you.

When Something’s Got to Give

If you’re at the point where something has got to give, and running is one of the somethings you’re considering, here are some thoughts I hope you’ll consider.

• Once a Runner, Always a Runner

Taking a break from running is ok.

As far as I’m concerned, taking a break from running doesn’t make you any less of a runner than you are right now.

It simply means life has a tendency to get a little topsy turvy on occasion, and when it does, you gotta do what you gotta do to keep your head above the water.

If that means taking a break so that you don’t break, literally or metaphorically, that’s what you need to do.

• Running Isn’t Going Anywhere

Taking a break from running isn’t necessarily a permanent decision.

A running break can be as long, or as short, as you need it to be.

Because the fact of the matter is, running isn’t going anywhere.

If/when you’re ready to start running again, you are free to do so.

• Fitness Losses Can Be Found

One of the biggest concerns about taking a break from running is the fear of losing all of the fitness you’ve earned previously.

I wish I could tell you that taking a break from running won’t impact your fitness, but that’s just not true.

But the fitness that is lost can absolutely be found again.

It will take some work, of course.

And it could be frustrating as you struggle to do what at one point was no big deal.

But if you’re willing to put in the time and do the work, you can regain your lost fitness after taking a break from running.

And in some cases? You can regain what you lost and then some.

Trust Yourself

If you’re wrestling with the idea of taking a break from running, the most important thing you can do is trust yourself.

If your gut is telling you that you need a break from running, take it.

Don’t let others, especially your running friends, convince you otherwise.

Need a break? Take it.

Period.

Sometimes taking a break from running is the best thing you can do. #runchat Click To Tweet

Have You Ever Taken an Extended Break from Running?

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