Pups and Post-its

  There are a lot of "tips" out there to staying motivated and reaching your 2014 goals. I've mentioned some of my tricks HERE.  But I thought I'd give you a few more that you may not have read or thought about.
   I'm very big on running with friends.  As I've said, it's a great motivator and holds you accountable. But sometimes there just isn't anyone available or willing around.  So what do you do?  I say grab your pooch! 

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   Now, not EVERY dog is made to run, or can.  But on those days where your lacking some motivation, and you have a pup who can handle the activity... strap on that leash and go!  Or if you've been wanting to get a dog...  this is a great excuse to go to a shelter and rescue your new running buddy!  Dogs need exercise.. and so do you.. so why not enjoy a little together?
Before you do though, there are few you things you should know about running with dogs. Here are just some:

• They need water just like you.  If not more.  So if even on a 30minute run it's a good idea to carry water with you.  I take my camelbak bottle and a small collapsible cup from REI so both my running partner and I have water.
• They need to train just like you.  Dogs can't just go out and run 8 miles if they've never been running with you before.  So make sure you start off small.  They need to work up to longer miles just like you do.
• They will stop frequently. Besides just the smells... they will have to poop/pee. So don't expect to go run with a specific time in mind. Just enjoy the company of your companion.
• They WILL frustrate you.  That's right, they will see a bird... another dog... a stick.. and want to go play.  It's going to take time to teach them to run with you so you MUST be patient. Give it time and they will learn to leave those things behind.

  My Janie loves to run. She sees me grabbing my running gear and can't wait to get out the door.  I can only hope that your pup reacts that same and you can build a similar running relationship.  Here is a great article from Runners World with anything and everything you could want to know about running with your pooch! http://www.runnersworld.com/motivation/running-with-dogs

 If running with a dog just isn't for you, or if you're looking for something else to motivate you.... try keeping those goals in plain sight!  You can write goals, quotes, or motivational phrases on post-its and put them on your bathroom mirror or fridge.  It'll be a daily reminder of what you hope to accomplish and is an easy way to "keep your eye on the prize"!

  I hope these help and wish you the best of luck in 2014! What are some other tricks YOU use to stay motivated and reach your goals? Let me hear them! Happy Running!