Lockdown has impacted every runner in some or the other way. Some have utilized this time to psychologically unload their minds while others focused on healing their injuries. Staying indoors for months has changed us massively. Here’s how to make a healthy running comeback post lockdown: 

First step is to self-assess

It is essential to ask yourself a few questions like:

• Did I lead an active lifestyle in these months?
• Has my fitness-level changed drastically or substantially?
• How often I worked out indoors? 

Basis such questions, you would be able to judge where you stand today and how can you return to running. 

Believe in it to make it happen

There is no denying that it will take a good amount of time and effort to return to the previous shape. But, self-belief makes a lot of difference. Tell yourself time and again that it is certainly possible to be the same driven runner that you were a few months ago.

Stay confident and positive

Once you reorient your belief system, the confidence-level is sure to grow and give you that emotional kick to start anew. Self-assurance is the biggest motivation that there is for every runner. Also, try to build a positive self-image to make a healthy return to running. With confidence, patience and positivity, nothing is too tough to achieve.

Train right

There are chances that you give an abrupt start to your training without focusing on the right things. This is the easiest way to distract your progress from the right path. Consult your coach. Talk to experts. 3-4 training sessions are more than enough to reboot. Also, make sure to shell out some time for strength training.

Ignore the before-after effect

The post-lockdown period is a new chapter for you. If you continuously compare your current version with the one that you were previously, it is likely to drag you back. Begin your every day with no comparisons. 

Find your partner in passion

It is highly recommended to run solo in the season of Coronavirus. But, joining running groups online or reconnecting to fellow runners/coaches for some dose of encouragement is not a bad idea. It gives you perspective and makes you realize that you are not alone on this journey. Many people want to start running again.

Not all experiences are the same

An amateur runner is likely to find it more difficult to get back to running than an experienced one. But that most definitely doesn’t imply that the former cannot make a successful comeback. 

Go easy on yourself 

Start running again with basic deadlines and goals. Try to not run for consecutive days initially. Give yourself the time and patience to progress steadily:

• If you had a break of 5-10 days, you can start right back from where you left 
•  In case the break was close to a month, suggested cutback is 60%
• Over 2 months break then you must cut back the mileage by at least 50%

At the end, if you are not able to meet the set expectations, it is completely understood and valid. What matters is that you stay consistent – it will certainly help you get back to running and up curve. Wish you all the luck!