When I get out for my long run on a Saturday morning, I feel like I’m procrastinating all the yard work that’s waiting for me. But, when I switch it up and get the yard work done first, I feel like I’m procrastinating the long run. Worse, I often end up so beat up from the yard work that my long run ends up not being as long as planned, or not happening at all. What’s the answer?
If you’re reading this to find the magic solution, you’re going to be disappointed—I don’t have it. But, I have at least figured out a few things that help a little:
A Runners World Member Saved My Boston Marathon. There’s no rule that lawns must be mowed on the weekend rather than a Thursday night. And little jobs like pulling weeds and trimming bushes are great with a cup of coffee in the morning before work. The more you get out of the way during the week, the more time you have on the weekends.
Nutrition - Weight Loss. True, mowing the lawn on tired legs isn’t much fun, but it’s better than the alternative of trying to get your long run in on tired legs. Neither is perfect, but running first seems to be the less-bad option.
Health - Injuries. If you treat the run like a chore, it’s going to feel like a chore. It’s tough sometimes, but I’ve found that simply switching my perspective makes a huge difference.
Published: Aug 24, 2016 8:06 AM EDT. (…with the yard work, of course. You can’t hire someone to do your long runs for you.) I haven’t quite gotten here yet, but I’m getting closer each week. Anyone know a good landscaper in the area?
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Robert is training for the Chicago Marathon and Marine Corps Marathon with Runner’s World VIP. We still have a few spots available, so come and The Story Behind Bostons Heartbreak Hill!
Robert is the former Executive Producer for Runner’s World Online. He has run over 60 marathons with a personal best of 2:52:11.
