Overcoming your biggest enemy If undertaken properly, running can improve your overall fitness and wellbeing.
For example, regular running can aid in weight loss, improve cardiovascular health, improve bone strength, maintain muscle tone, and, through the release of hormones called endorphins, improve our moods whilst also lowering stress levels.
Pretty impressive, I'm sure you'll agree.
But for a lot of people the thought of going out for a run fills them with complete dread, so they don't bother, simple as that.
Other people on the other hand are running junkies, every day is planned to include some sort of run and if they fail to get their daily fix, they become moody and grumpy.
Then there are the people who fall into the last category; the thought of running appeals to them but they always manage to find a stumbling block to stop them going out.
These stumbling blocks are usually known as excuses! Now if you're still reading this you may be familiar with some of these excuses, if not all of them: I'm tired I've got in late from work There's a good night on telly It's raining It's cold It's windy The house needs tidying I have to do some ironing You get the idea; the excuse list could quite easily fill the next two pages.
The one factor linking all these excuses together is a lack of motivation.
Yes, that's right, motivation.
You see, the moment you decide to get your kit on, lace up your trainers and step out of the front door, you've immediately overcome that mental stumbling block that's produced all those excuses preventing you from getting out there in the first place.
But how do you keep your motivation levels up and prevent those excuses from creeping into your daily routine?

• Well, instead of watching TV every night, try planning in thirty minutes here and there around your viewing to accommodate your run.
  
• If the weather has taken a turn for the worse, then wear suitable clothing to keep you dry and warm.
  Your run should be enjoyable not a punishment.
  
• If you feel pressured by family ties then be selfish, it's important for you to have some me time, plus, the benefits of your running will be passed onto your family as your stress levels will be lowered and your mood will be improved.
  
• Try to run with a partner or join a local running club.
  You'll feel less likely to let people down if they're expecting you to meet up with them and go for a run.
  
• If you're getting bored of your running routes then change them and vary intensity and length.
  
• Set yourself a goal, such as training for a race or achieving a weight loss target.
  This will help to maintain your focus.
  
• If you feel running is monotonous then take your mp3 player with you and listen to your favourite tracks.
  
• Keep a running log to track your progress, once you see how far you've come you'll want to keep it up.
  
• Use your running as your own personal time to clear your head and think through the days events
• Take the dog with you and kill two birds with one stone

And there you have it, ten motivational techniques to a new you.
Try them out, stick to your plan, mix routines up, set yourself some goals and see how the changes will benefit not only you, but also how people will look at you.
Now turn that TV off and get running!