Ensuring you feel comfortable in your own skin can help to set you on the path of running success

Words Louise Pyne

There are so many pulls to lure you into signing up to a race, and whether your personal motive is to get stronger and fitter, test your mental limits or you’re desperate for something positive to come out of 2021 given that most running events were cancelled last year due to the pandemic, having a goal in mind will help to give you a much-needed boost.

Whatever your reason to train, it’s likely there will be ups and downs, like in any part of life. Physical exercise is a great way to boost selfesteem, but there are times when you might find yourself doubting yourself in the pursuit of perfectionism. Maybe you find that you’re constantly comparing yourself to others and feel like you’re always performing under par? “The fitness industry is a competitive place. Even if you’re not competing at your sport, it’s human nature to compare ourselves to others,” explains personal trainer and health expert, Chloe Bowler.

But setting unrealistic aims won’t move you closer to your goals; in fact, it’s likely to create more positive than negative results. “Comparing yourself to others can have a positive impact on your fitness journey, as it can provide inspiration and motivation, but more often than not it can cause feelings of anxiety and disappointment that others are achieving more than you,” she adds.