Runningmonkeys

What makes a running habit stick?

Time - As with any habit it is the time that we spend doing it (how long we do it for) that locks in the habit

Intensity - It is how vivid the experience, and how much an impact it makes on us that locks in the habit

Complementary factors - It is the effect of other aspects in our lives that either reinforce or degrade our running habits.

If these three factors are effective then it becomes easy to understand the mechanics of our positive running habits.  Firstly we should run often and regularly.  Second, our experience of running should be vivid, positive and pleasant to be most effective.  Thirdly the rest of our lives, including our family and friends, our diet and our view of ourselves, should all be used as positive reinforcement of the habits we are trying to promote.

If all of these factors aren’t present we can still form excellent running habits but the whole process is a lot easier if we have things working in our favours.

Remember, though, that running habits can be positive or negative and the only difference is your reaction to the external influence.