Staying motivated without a target race to train for

With every passing week, more and more big races are canceled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, with the Valencia Half Marathon joining the long list of races that have unfortunately been scrapped (London for mass participants, Chicago, New York and many more).

Omar Abu OmarCoach

It is expected that more races will be postponed or cancelled, which can be demotivating for runners who have signed up for big races in the first quarter of the year in anticipation for a big day of running (and hopefully, PBs or first time experiences of finishing a certain distance like a 10k, a half marathon or a marathon).

There is no need to despair, this post will give you some tips on how to keep your motivation levels up during these uncertain times:

1. Sign up to smaller races: The racing scene is slowly coming back to life, albeit on a smaller scale. Check for races in the UAE and/or in countries that have been dealing well with the pandemic. Please keep in mind however that regulations and rules change regularly with regards to restrictions, travel rules etc.).


2. Work on your weaknesses: When you talk to most runners about their weaknesses, the usual response would be that they need to strengthen their core muscles. Take up this opportunity to focus on exercises that strengthen these areas, and you will see improvements in your running soon!


3. Take up other activities that you would not normally have the time for when you are in full-fledged training, e.g. yoga, meditation, cycling, swimming etc.


4. Experiment in your training: Do things that you normally would not try in your regular training sessions (e.g. shorter runs at higher intensity, running in new locations and with new people and so on).


5. Be patient: The COVID-19 pandemic is going to continue impacting many aspects of our life, and hence, be patient and think of the long term rewards of your current training.