Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone

Runners love their routines. Heck, who doesn’t enjoy a good routine? Having morning coffee and catching up on current events before the day begins. That’s probably one of my favorites. The same is true when it comes to running. Whether it’s the same workout, the same long run, or choosing a temperature-controlled atmosphere, we tend to stick with what we know. 

Here’s the deal: as runners, that will only get us so far. What happens if you have been training for your race in ideal conditions, only for race day to arrive with cold or even hot temps? Wouldn’t you want to be ready, both mentally and physically, to handle whatever comes your way?

What Is a Comfort Zone in Running?

A comfort zone isn’t about being lazy- it’s actually the opposite. A comfort zone is more about predictability. It’s running at a pace that you know you can handle. It’s avoiding hill training because hills do not feel good. Skipping speed work because it intimidates you.

In a nutshell, comfort feels good. It feels familiar. Growth, on the other hand, doesn’t always feel good. Sometime it just hurts. My personal philosophy? If it doesn’t feel good, that’s all the more reason to do it. (Keep in mind that pain is the exception to the rule – always be smart about listening to your body.)

Why Growth Feels Uncomfortable

Progress happens when you place new demands on your body. This could be:

• • Running faster than your usual pace (pace training)
  • Tracking hills you’d normally avoid
  • Extending your long runs for distance training

These are just a few examples of how we challenge ourselves to improve our running. We challenge not only our body but also our minds. As your confidence builds, your body begins to adapt to the increased workload.

The Mental Benefits Matter

Stepping outside your comfort zone isn’t just physical – it’s a mental challenge, too. As  mentioned above, its challenging mental toughness. For example, consider running outside in the winter. Do your research, talk to other runners, and be prepared. Then, go out and face the cold. Run in the rain. You might be amazed at what you can tolerate once you’ve mentally prepared yourself.

I always hated running in the winter. I would avoid it and make every attempt to run the treadmill. Personally, I’m one of those crazy runners that can handle and like treadmill runs. I challenge myself on the treadmill, making it less comfortable with hills, speed work, and even slow pace intervals, all of which add purpose to the workout.

Start with Small Steps

When you make the commitment to push yourself out of your comfort zone, it’s important to start small. Break up the challenges to make them easier to tolerate. It’s about intentional, manageable steps that help you build mental and physical toughness over time.

Try:

• Adding short pickups to an easy run
• Running the striders within the first mile
• Choose a route with some rolling hills
• Join a group run or start talking to other runners online
• Consider a running coach if that is something you can do

Small changes can add up to big gains over time.

If you have any questions, I’m always willing to chat with other runners and help where I can. Good luck with your training in the next year!