How to Tackle Tough Workouts (and More!)

Every experienced runner knows there will come a point when things get tough. Just as smooth seas do not make a good sailor, smooth roads do not make a good runner. (It can be the same, too, with any workout.) We build our character, though, during these defining moments—along with our muscles. And we develop the mental skills necessary to keep going, and improving.

So how do you develop grit?  

Take a Step Back

The ability to dig deep starts well before tough workout moments; much like your teachers advised for exams—it begins with preparation. Here’s why: When things get tough and that little voice of self-doubt creeps in, you’ll be able to tell yourself you already put in the required work to push through. You can tell yourself you can do it. The takeaway of course is this: Train your ass off. Then everything can feel easier.

Shift Your Attitude

Another factor that can help you muscle on is your mindset. Instead of fearing the discomfort that can come with tough exercise, tweak your perspective, and embrace it. Know that when things feel tough, you’re making yourself stronger, faster, better. See a challenge as a feat to be had, and something to conquer. The more comfortable you are with being uncomfortable, the further you will travel.

Let Yourself Fail

Go for it: Experience failure. If you never do, you’ll never know how far you can go. Only by testing and expanding your limits can you learn to move beyond them. Of course, once you fail, learn from your experience. Approach your run—say a PR attempt, for example, with a new strategy. A gritty person is malleable, and uses lessons learned from failure to create success.

Have No Shame

Sometimes it’s important to simply stop, even for the day. If you feel the risk of a physical injury for example, by all means, stop whatever you’re doing. Pushing yourself to the point of failure is one thing, but injuring yourself in the process is counterproductive to any fitness goal. And remember your goal: Success!