My motivation to run is usually next to zero. I don’t prefer it, and I certainly don’t do it for fun as often as I used to. However, I know deep in my heart that it’s good for me. So I do it anyway. However, I have such a hard time keeping my pace, even after a measly 2 miles. Only a year ago, I had ran my first half marathon and it felt like a breeze. What happened? Lack of motivation happened, that’s what. I didn’t have anything to run for, no reason to go for longer runs, until recently. When MoRunning contacted Angus and I to see if we wanted to join them, we decided why not?

MoRunning is a 5k or 10k run that helps raise awareness and funds towards the Movember Foundation. This foundation tackles men’s health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. MoRunning events are located all across the UK and Ireland, including Leeds, Manchester, Belfast, Edinburgh and many more. The best part about this MoRunning events is that it’s not as serious as other races. It’s all about coming together as a community and supporting the future of men’s health. In fact, Fancy Dress is all the rage for this kind of race! You all know that I love me some fancy dress, and boy do I have the next greatest fancy dress idea this time around! You’ll just have to find out what it is on Nov 20th…

How to Train for a 10k in 2 weeks

In about 2 weeks (20th November), Angus, Lorna and I will be participating in the MoRunning event/race in Manchester. Neither Angus and I run often. The most running I do usually involves running to the gym. Most people say we should have trained at least a month ahead of time. Since we’re both already in fairly good shape, though, I’m confident we can manage. Here are some tips and tricks on how to Train for a 10K in 2 weeks:

1. Make a plan, and stick to it

Get out a diary or a calendar and plan your running days. For me, I start with running 5K off the bat simply because I’ve already been running about 1.5 miles to the gym every day. So it makes sense to challenge myself, especially because we don’t have much time. On the bottom is my workout calendar leading up the MoRunning event. It seems intense, but it’s only a slight variation of what I’ve been doing already! Trust me, it’s not an easy plan. It mixes strength training, cross training (swimming) and running all into one! Tweak it as much as suits your needs and your abilities.

2. Sign up for the event earlier

Remember how I mentioned how I had no motivation to run, simply because I didn’t have anything to run for? This is where tip #2 shines through. If you know you’e eventually going to hit the sign up button, do it earlier than you normally would. Sign up months in advance if you have to! Because once you sign up, you know there’s no turning back. It will give you the drive to train harder, faster and stronger.

3. Bring a buddy

Drag your friend, partner, sister, mom or dog along with you on your training runs. I don’t know about you, but sometimes when I run, I get so lost in my head and can get bored easily. Sometimes I simply don’t push myself enough. When I have someone running with me, we keep each other accountable, and keep each other company. Time somehow flies much faster, and before you know it, you’d have just run a few miles without realising it!

4. Cross-Train your body

The biggest issues runners face before an event is injury. Sometimes, running harder, faster and stronger isn’t the way to go. Although your body needs a running break, it also needs to activate other muscles. When all your muscles are strong and fit, you are less likely to hurt yourself while doing an endurance sport. As seen on my calendar, I do a mixture of weight lifting (low weights, high reps), swimming and yoga.

5. Eat Good food & get some sleep

Your body, mind and soul will thank you. Eat complex carbs, healthy fats and lots of protein to keep your energy levels sustained throughout the day. Sleep between 7-8 hours each day so you’re NOT falling asleep at the desk. Trust me, it truly makes a difference in your training routine. You could train for hours on end, but if you don’t eat well or get enough sleep, you would be hindering your overall performance. Not to mention, no one likes a HUNGRY Mr. Grumpy Gills!

6. Last but not least: have fun

MoRunning events aren’t about who can run the fastest, or who can beat the other. It’s about bringing the community to raise awareness of men’s health and its importance. Wear your craziest outfits, bring on the moustaches, and have FUN!

Do you have any other tips on how to train for a 10k? Let us know in the comments below!

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