Interesting responses, thanks guys.

I think there's some truth in both philosophies. On the one hand, I don't think I can (or want to) constantly set myself new goals. I think I'd just find it mentally exhausting.

On the other hand, part of what makes running enjoyable is improving, or at least feeling that I'm fit and subjectively 'good'.

Maybe it's a combination of being organised and goal-focused enough to make sure I do actually get up and out of the door 3 times a week, but recognising that it doesn't always have to be with the Garmin. And hopefully that'll mean that stepping up to train for a race doesn't feel so tough.

I think that might be it. I need to find a "non-training for a race" mode, which is structured enough to keep me ticking over, but not so regimented that I resent it.

Lisa's hit it on the head I think.  I took up running again in August after 4 years of little activity.  By November I was fed up of my watch and paces, etc., so ditched it and just concentrated on 'feeling' the run.  I've been doing the distances and modifying effort according to my training plan, but have removed the high-tech gadgets, including watch and ipod.  Something else that worked was to try to fit in at least 1 off-road run a week in a nice setting.

Reading 'Born to Run' also gave me an additional inspirational boost mid-winter when the marathon training mileage started piling up.

Neigh, Lisa.

Sorry, couldn't resist - I've had a couple of shandies. Actually you make a lot of sense. Enjoying your running has to help!

Same here, goal setting is all important. I completed 19 races in my first year of competitive racing last year from a 5k all the way through to HM distance, but the majority was 10k's with the oddball distance thrown in now and again.

I set my goals to small achievable ones for example last year my 10k goal was a PB of sub 42 minutes, and getting near the end of the year it was looking doubtful as I could only get around 42:40, but in a tune up 10k race for the Birmingham HM I managed 41:58 which illustraites a point that although I said the goal setting is all important, don't get hung up on it to the detriment of performance and confidence.

P.S. 10k goal this year is sub 41 minutes, and I have booked up for my very first full marathon in October.

Yes - I agree.  Its the setting of another goal that keeps me motivated.  it certainly doesn't have to be a marathon, there are so many different goals to be had in running, from just aiming for a PB in a 5K or 10K etc  to taking part in a cross country or adventure race, or perhaps a triathlon like Kate. Another good motivator I find is age graded percentage - I try to actually increase this over time or at least keep it steady as the years pass! Or, I don't know whether you are a member of a club, but joining one and entering club races is also very motivating.  There's always friendly rivalry amongst club members which can be great fun.   Good luck, I'm sure you will find something motivating!

Hi guys,

A bit of a vague philosophical and psychological ramble - how do you keep yourselves motivated consistently over time? Particularly after a big race.

I'll tell you where I'm coming from...

A couple of years ago I ran my first (and so far only) marathon - London. It was great! It was one of the best days of my life. I didn't achieve the 4 hours that I wanted, but any slight disappointment was insignificant compared to the wonderful overall experience.

I basked in the feeling for a while, but after the crowds had gone home, the pats on the back had stopped, and the taste of the celebratory Guinness (plural) had faded, I felt a bit empty. I also found it difficult to put on my running shoes again. My slog round the park didn't seem particularly interesting any more and the motivation, and the discipline weren't there. I entered a couple of halfs and 10s in autumn, got very good times, but it wasn't quite the same.

After then spending the best part of a year dealing with niggling injuries, I can say that I'm really enjoying running again. BUT, but a huge part of that is because I've got the Brighton marathon in my sights, training is going really well, and I feel I'll be better-placed to crack the time.

But when it's over, what then? Focusing on this race has given me a huge sense of purpose. When it's gone, how do I fill the gap? Especially if I do crack 4 hours. I could obviously then enter another marathon, but it's a big commitment and I don't want my running life to be constantly at full tilt.

Hopefully this isn't too rambling. If anyone has any experiences they can share, I'd be very interested!