How A Running Resolution Can Lead To Better Results

- Dr Jordan D. Metzl

AS THE CALENDAR PAGE flipped to 1 January last month, it’s probably no surprise that many South Africans set a New Year’s resolution. Many of these post-holiday promises may have included being more active in the coming year – to move more, sit less, take the stairs in lieu of the lift, and maybe even sign up for a race.

You, on the other hand, probably won’t feel that gravitational pull to pledge more movement. I mean, you’re already logging plenty kays each week, right? You’re active most days – if not every day. Sure, increased fitness is the most common resolution among the general population, but doesn’t that mean that we, as highly motivated runners, can skip this old tradition? When it comes to fitness, we’ve already proven that we’re up to the task.

But if you look at the science, the answer is clear: runners can and do benefit from setting a New Year’s resolution. The trick is doing it the right way.