.svg){kind=icon}
Mental Miles
Mental Health and Running
More often than not, when you cannot do something, it makes you want to do it more. How many times to do you not have the motivation to go for your run or gym session? Then, the second you can’t go, it is all you want to do?! You crave the feeling of running, and you are envious of those around you exercising.
It’s totally normal to take exercising for granted when we have the ability to do it day in day out. But something that becomes even more apparent when I see athletes not able to run, is the relationship between their running and their mental health.
When you Google “mental health and running” the below comes up:
Running regularly at a moderate or vigorous level can improve your mental health.
Multiple studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise and primarily jogging reduces the symptoms of clinical depression. And according to studies cited by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, running and other forms of vigorous exercise can reduce anxiety symptoms and help you relax.
Running assists the body in producing neurotransmitters in the brain that literally boost one's mood. Increased dopamine and serotonin simply help improve outlook and mood and, in some cases, can offer critical relief to those dealing with symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Makes sense to me! Everyone has different stresses in life. Whether these are stemming from work, family, or a global pandemic, they will occur and challenge your mental wellbeing. Working on your mental health doesn’t need to be taboo or expensive. It can be as simple of doing something that you enjoy or that is good for you. Running is a perfect example here.
Our coached sessions at InnerFight are just as much about bringing people together in the community as they are about getting the work done. Yes, we want you to try, to improve, to hit PBs and goals, but we also want you to be better at life. If this means coming to a session for the social aspect and surrounding yourself with likeminded individuals, then we are more than happy with this. It’s not about being the best or the fastest, from my point of view it's about giving you an hour in your day that is fulfilling and rewarding. You might use a session to escape a hectic household, or to mull over a problem at work, or to catch up with a friend.
For me running after work (when I had an office-based job) was my way of de-stressing and clearing my head, it just so happened that it was also my daily exercise and my commute. Running has brought so much more to my life than some PBs and splits. From the people I have met to the experiences I have had, there are simply too many positive memories to list them all.
Going for a run doesn’t need to be lonely, boring, long, or fast. You can walk, jog, and chat. I encourage you to give it a go, like properly try it. If this means committing to a group session, embrace it!
And to those who sit and watch and say I’m mental for running so much, I beg to differ.
GYMNASTICS
This Tuesday, we’re focusing on handstands and handstand walks! We’ll start with strength work before moving on to balance and control while upside down, beginning from the box and progressing to the wall and beyond.
Thursday, we’re heading back to the bar for another round of Bar Muscle Ups! Whether you're chasing your first rep or fine-tuning your technique for cleaner, stronger sets, we’ve got you covered with progressions, modifications, and strength drills to help you level up. Let's go!
HYBRID FITNESS
This week's HYBRID Fitness session focuses on running intervals and then some compromised running, getting used to pushing into the run after some taxing work.
MOBILITY
Unlock better depth, posture, and comfort in your front squats with this focused mobility class. We’ll target key areas, such as the ankles, hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders, to improve your squat mechanics and front rack position. Whether you’re new to squatting or looking to break through a plateau, this class will help you move more efficiently and squat with confidence. Suitable for all levels.
WEIGHTLIFTING
Weightlifting this week is snatch. Working on the power snatch. Technique work, then a complex of snatch pull + 2 power snatch. Finishing with some heavy back squats.
The Monday Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Nad al Sheeba
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Wednesday - Indoor Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Thursday - Endurance Strength
A strength class focused on key movements for endurance athletes to help avoid injury, build speed and develop strength.
Time: 06:30am
Location: This is a paid class session at InnerFight HQ. If you're interested to join, email winning@innerfight.com
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride. This ride always begins with 18 - 20km at 30kph before a longer segment with various formats. Expect the main group to ride around 34kph, slower groups will break off and form. Anyone is welcome to join.
Time: 04:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Sunday - Long Run
A run where we start and finish together. Up to 2hrs long depending on people needs.
If you're interested to join, reach out to Dan Bagley, db@innerfight.com
Time: 05:29 am
Location: Common Grounds
Monday
Session: No in-person session
There is no in person LRC session today, Unlimited Clients, there is a session in your TrainingPeaks still. Enjoy!
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. Come ready to run fast and have fun.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we will be running intervals in the park. 100m on/100m recovery.
Friday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run + LRC Training Camp
This week re will be cycling through the below seqeunce:
10X
2mins @ 7PRE
1min @ 8RPE
1min @ recovery
The evening session on the LRC Training Camp will be a chilled shake out run from the hotel.
Saturday
Time: 5:29am
Session: LRC Training Camp
We have an action packed day on the LRC Training Camp, all details will be shared in WA.
Sunday
Time: 5:29am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: Long Run + LRC Training Camp
Today we will host a community long run from Common Grounds for those who are still in Dubai.
Those on the training camp in KhorFakkan we will hike at 5:29am.
Monday:
Strength:
A) 1 min max set strict pull-ups
B) EMOM x 8 Pull ups @ 30% of max set
Conditioning:
Every 5 mins x 6
2 rounds
6 Alt Single Arm Manmaker
300/250m row
Tuesday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 9
1) 16 Alt goblet cossack squat
2) 40 sec alt single leg V-ups
3) 30 sec side plank E/S
B) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 front squat @20x1
Conditioning:
30-20-10
Assault Bike
Rest 2 minutes after each set
Wednesday:
Strength:
Deadlift Every 2:00 x 5 - 2 reps
Conditioning:
AMRAP 22
In a team of 4
2000m C2 Bike
40 Power cleans (70/45)
40 TTB
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Every 90 sec x 8 - 10 DB box step up
B) Every 2 mins x 5 - 8 Alternating Barbell Reverse Lunges
C) EMOM x 8 - M1: 20 sec Nordic Hold / M2: 30 sec Ring rows
Conditioning:
500/450 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
400/350 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
300/250 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
200/150 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
100/50 ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 8 1 push press (1 sec pause in dip)
Conditioning:
0-16 mins
2500m/2000m row
Every 2 mins - 6 box jump overs
16-26 mins
1500m/1200m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB Front squat
26-32 mins
1000m/800m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB STOH
More often than not, when you cannot do something, it makes you want to do it more. How many times to do you not have the motivation to go for your run or gym session? Then, the second you can’t go, it is all you want to do?! You crave the feeling of running, and you are envious of those around you exercising.
It’s totally normal to take exercising for granted when we have the ability to do it day in day out. But something that becomes even more apparent when I see athletes not able to run, is the relationship between their running and their mental health.
When you Google “mental health and running” the below comes up:
Running regularly at a moderate or vigorous level can improve your mental health.
Multiple studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise and primarily jogging reduces the symptoms of clinical depression. And according to studies cited by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, running and other forms of vigorous exercise can reduce anxiety symptoms and help you relax.
Running assists the body in producing neurotransmitters in the brain that literally boost one's mood. Increased dopamine and serotonin simply help improve outlook and mood and, in some cases, can offer critical relief to those dealing with symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Makes sense to me! Everyone has different stresses in life. Whether these are stemming from work, family, or a global pandemic, they will occur and challenge your mental wellbeing. Working on your mental health doesn’t need to be taboo or expensive. It can be as simple of doing something that you enjoy or that is good for you. Running is a perfect example here.
Our coached sessions at InnerFight are just as much about bringing people together in the community as they are about getting the work done. Yes, we want you to try, to improve, to hit PBs and goals, but we also want you to be better at life. If this means coming to a session for the social aspect and surrounding yourself with likeminded individuals, then we are more than happy with this. It’s not about being the best or the fastest, from my point of view it's about giving you an hour in your day that is fulfilling and rewarding. You might use a session to escape a hectic household, or to mull over a problem at work, or to catch up with a friend.
For me running after work (when I had an office-based job) was my way of de-stressing and clearing my head, it just so happened that it was also my daily exercise and my commute. Running has brought so much more to my life than some PBs and splits. From the people I have met to the experiences I have had, there are simply too many positive memories to list them all.
Going for a run doesn’t need to be lonely, boring, long, or fast. You can walk, jog, and chat. I encourage you to give it a go, like properly try it. If this means committing to a group session, embrace it!
And to those who sit and watch and say I’m mental for running so much, I beg to differ.
The Monday Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Nad al Sheeba
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Wednesday - Indoor Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Thursday - Endurance Strength
A strength class focused on key movements for endurance athletes to help avoid injury, build speed and develop strength.
Time: 06:30am
Location: This is a paid class session at InnerFight HQ. If you're interested to join, email winning@innerfight.com
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride. This ride always begins with 18 - 20km at 30kph before a longer segment with various formats. Expect the main group to ride around 34kph, slower groups will break off and form. Anyone is welcome to join.
Time: 04:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Sunday - Long Run
A run where we start and finish together. Up to 2hrs long depending on people needs.
If you're interested to join, reach out to Dan Bagley, db@innerfight.com
Time: 05:29 am
Location: Common Grounds
Monday
Session: No in-person session
There is no in person LRC session today, Unlimited Clients, there is a session in your TrainingPeaks still. Enjoy!
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. Come ready to run fast and have fun.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we will be running intervals in the park. 100m on/100m recovery.
Friday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run + LRC Training Camp
This week re will be cycling through the below seqeunce:
10X
2mins @ 7PRE
1min @ 8RPE
1min @ recovery
The evening session on the LRC Training Camp will be a chilled shake out run from the hotel.
Saturday
Time: 5:29am
Session: LRC Training Camp
We have an action packed day on the LRC Training Camp, all details will be shared in WA.
Sunday
Time: 5:29am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: Long Run + LRC Training Camp
Today we will host a community long run from Common Grounds for those who are still in Dubai.
Those on the training camp in KhorFakkan we will hike at 5:29am.
Monday:
Strength:
A) 1 min max set strict pull-ups
B) EMOM x 8 Pull ups @ 30% of max set
Conditioning:
Every 5 mins x 6
2 rounds
6 Alt Single Arm Manmaker
300/250m row
Tuesday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 9
1) 16 Alt goblet cossack squat
2) 40 sec alt single leg V-ups
3) 30 sec side plank E/S
B) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 front squat @20x1
Conditioning:
30-20-10
Assault Bike
Rest 2 minutes after each set
Wednesday:
Strength:
Deadlift Every 2:00 x 5 - 2 reps
Conditioning:
AMRAP 22
In a team of 4
2000m C2 Bike
40 Power cleans (70/45)
40 TTB
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Every 90 sec x 8 - 10 DB box step up
B) Every 2 mins x 5 - 8 Alternating Barbell Reverse Lunges
C) EMOM x 8 - M1: 20 sec Nordic Hold / M2: 30 sec Ring rows
Conditioning:
500/450 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
400/350 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
300/250 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
200/150 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
100/50 ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 8 1 push press (1 sec pause in dip)
Conditioning:
0-16 mins
2500m/2000m row
Every 2 mins - 6 box jump overs
16-26 mins
1500m/1200m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB Front squat
26-32 mins
1000m/800m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB STOH
GYMNASTICS
This Tuesday, we’re focusing on handstands and handstand walks! We’ll start with strength work before moving on to balance and control while upside down, beginning from the box and progressing to the wall and beyond.
Thursday, we’re heading back to the bar for another round of Bar Muscle Ups! Whether you're chasing your first rep or fine-tuning your technique for cleaner, stronger sets, we’ve got you covered with progressions, modifications, and strength drills to help you level up. Let's go!
HYBRID FITNESS
This week's HYBRID Fitness session focuses on running intervals and then some compromised running, getting used to pushing into the run after some taxing work.
MOBILITY
Unlock better depth, posture, and comfort in your front squats with this focused mobility class. We’ll target key areas, such as the ankles, hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders, to improve your squat mechanics and front rack position. Whether you’re new to squatting or looking to break through a plateau, this class will help you move more efficiently and squat with confidence. Suitable for all levels.
WEIGHTLIFTING
Weightlifting this week is snatch. Working on the power snatch. Technique work, then a complex of snatch pull + 2 power snatch. Finishing with some heavy back squats.
More often than not, when you cannot do something, it makes you want to do it more. How many times to do you not have the motivation to go for your run or gym session? Then, the second you can’t go, it is all you want to do?! You crave the feeling of running, and you are envious of those around you exercising.
It’s totally normal to take exercising for granted when we have the ability to do it day in day out. But something that becomes even more apparent when I see athletes not able to run, is the relationship between their running and their mental health.
When you Google “mental health and running” the below comes up:
Running regularly at a moderate or vigorous level can improve your mental health.
Multiple studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise and primarily jogging reduces the symptoms of clinical depression. And according to studies cited by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, running and other forms of vigorous exercise can reduce anxiety symptoms and help you relax.
Running assists the body in producing neurotransmitters in the brain that literally boost one's mood. Increased dopamine and serotonin simply help improve outlook and mood and, in some cases, can offer critical relief to those dealing with symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Makes sense to me! Everyone has different stresses in life. Whether these are stemming from work, family, or a global pandemic, they will occur and challenge your mental wellbeing. Working on your mental health doesn’t need to be taboo or expensive. It can be as simple of doing something that you enjoy or that is good for you. Running is a perfect example here.
Our coached sessions at InnerFight are just as much about bringing people together in the community as they are about getting the work done. Yes, we want you to try, to improve, to hit PBs and goals, but we also want you to be better at life. If this means coming to a session for the social aspect and surrounding yourself with likeminded individuals, then we are more than happy with this. It’s not about being the best or the fastest, from my point of view it's about giving you an hour in your day that is fulfilling and rewarding. You might use a session to escape a hectic household, or to mull over a problem at work, or to catch up with a friend.
For me running after work (when I had an office-based job) was my way of de-stressing and clearing my head, it just so happened that it was also my daily exercise and my commute. Running has brought so much more to my life than some PBs and splits. From the people I have met to the experiences I have had, there are simply too many positive memories to list them all.
Going for a run doesn’t need to be lonely, boring, long, or fast. You can walk, jog, and chat. I encourage you to give it a go, like properly try it. If this means committing to a group session, embrace it!
And to those who sit and watch and say I’m mental for running so much, I beg to differ.
Monday
Session: No in-person session
There is no in person LRC session today, Unlimited Clients, there is a session in your TrainingPeaks still. Enjoy!
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. Come ready to run fast and have fun.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we will be running intervals in the park. 100m on/100m recovery.
Friday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run + LRC Training Camp
This week re will be cycling through the below seqeunce:
10X
2mins @ 7PRE
1min @ 8RPE
1min @ recovery
The evening session on the LRC Training Camp will be a chilled shake out run from the hotel.
Saturday
Time: 5:29am
Session: LRC Training Camp
We have an action packed day on the LRC Training Camp, all details will be shared in WA.
Sunday
Time: 5:29am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: Long Run + LRC Training Camp
Today we will host a community long run from Common Grounds for those who are still in Dubai.
Those on the training camp in KhorFakkan we will hike at 5:29am.
Monday:
Strength:
A) 1 min max set strict pull-ups
B) EMOM x 8 Pull ups @ 30% of max set
Conditioning:
Every 5 mins x 6
2 rounds
6 Alt Single Arm Manmaker
300/250m row
Tuesday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 9
1) 16 Alt goblet cossack squat
2) 40 sec alt single leg V-ups
3) 30 sec side plank E/S
B) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 front squat @20x1
Conditioning:
30-20-10
Assault Bike
Rest 2 minutes after each set
Wednesday:
Strength:
Deadlift Every 2:00 x 5 - 2 reps
Conditioning:
AMRAP 22
In a team of 4
2000m C2 Bike
40 Power cleans (70/45)
40 TTB
Thursday:
Strength:
A) Every 90 sec x 8 - 10 DB box step up
B) Every 2 mins x 5 - 8 Alternating Barbell Reverse Lunges
C) EMOM x 8 - M1: 20 sec Nordic Hold / M2: 30 sec Ring rows
Conditioning:
500/450 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
400/350 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
300/250 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
200/150 ski
5 burpee pull-ups
100/50 ski
Friday:
Strength:
A) Every 75 sec x 8 1 push press (1 sec pause in dip)
Conditioning:
0-16 mins
2500m/2000m row
Every 2 mins - 6 box jump overs
16-26 mins
1500m/1200m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB Front squat
26-32 mins
1000m/800m row
Every 2 mins - 6 Dual KB STOH
GYMNASTICS
This Tuesday, we’re focusing on handstands and handstand walks! We’ll start with strength work before moving on to balance and control while upside down, beginning from the box and progressing to the wall and beyond.
Thursday, we’re heading back to the bar for another round of Bar Muscle Ups! Whether you're chasing your first rep or fine-tuning your technique for cleaner, stronger sets, we’ve got you covered with progressions, modifications, and strength drills to help you level up. Let's go!
HYBRID FITNESS
This week's HYBRID Fitness session focuses on running intervals and then some compromised running, getting used to pushing into the run after some taxing work.
MOBILITY
Unlock better depth, posture, and comfort in your front squats with this focused mobility class. We’ll target key areas, such as the ankles, hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders, to improve your squat mechanics and front rack position. Whether you’re new to squatting or looking to break through a plateau, this class will help you move more efficiently and squat with confidence. Suitable for all levels.
WEIGHTLIFTING
Weightlifting this week is snatch. Working on the power snatch. Technique work, then a complex of snatch pull + 2 power snatch. Finishing with some heavy back squats.
The Monday Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Nad al Sheeba
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Wednesday - Indoor Ride
Our community program is delivered via TrainingPeaks for AED 750 p/month. If you're interested to have a plan to follow, email tw@innerfight.com
Thursday - Endurance Strength
A strength class focused on key movements for endurance athletes to help avoid injury, build speed and develop strength.
Time: 06:30am
Location: This is a paid class session at InnerFight HQ. If you're interested to join, email winning@innerfight.com
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride. This ride always begins with 18 - 20km at 30kph before a longer segment with various formats. Expect the main group to ride around 34kph, slower groups will break off and form. Anyone is welcome to join.
Time: 04:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Sunday - Long Run
A run where we start and finish together. Up to 2hrs long depending on people needs.
If you're interested to join, reach out to Dan Bagley, db@innerfight.com
Time: 05:29 am
Location: Common Grounds
More often than not, when you cannot do something, it makes you want to do it more. How many times to do you not have the motivation to go for your run or gym session? Then, the second you can’t go, it is all you want to do?! You crave the feeling of running, and you are envious of those around you exercising.
It’s totally normal to take exercising for granted when we have the ability to do it day in day out. But something that becomes even more apparent when I see athletes not able to run, is the relationship between their running and their mental health.
When you Google “mental health and running” the below comes up:
Running regularly at a moderate or vigorous level can improve your mental health.
Multiple studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise and primarily jogging reduces the symptoms of clinical depression. And according to studies cited by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, running and other forms of vigorous exercise can reduce anxiety symptoms and help you relax.
Running assists the body in producing neurotransmitters in the brain that literally boost one's mood. Increased dopamine and serotonin simply help improve outlook and mood and, in some cases, can offer critical relief to those dealing with symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Makes sense to me! Everyone has different stresses in life. Whether these are stemming from work, family, or a global pandemic, they will occur and challenge your mental wellbeing. Working on your mental health doesn’t need to be taboo or expensive. It can be as simple of doing something that you enjoy or that is good for you. Running is a perfect example here.
Our coached sessions at InnerFight are just as much about bringing people together in the community as they are about getting the work done. Yes, we want you to try, to improve, to hit PBs and goals, but we also want you to be better at life. If this means coming to a session for the social aspect and surrounding yourself with likeminded individuals, then we are more than happy with this. It’s not about being the best or the fastest, from my point of view it's about giving you an hour in your day that is fulfilling and rewarding. You might use a session to escape a hectic household, or to mull over a problem at work, or to catch up with a friend.
For me running after work (when I had an office-based job) was my way of de-stressing and clearing my head, it just so happened that it was also my daily exercise and my commute. Running has brought so much more to my life than some PBs and splits. From the people I have met to the experiences I have had, there are simply too many positive memories to list them all.
Going for a run doesn’t need to be lonely, boring, long, or fast. You can walk, jog, and chat. I encourage you to give it a go, like properly try it. If this means committing to a group session, embrace it!
And to those who sit and watch and say I’m mental for running so much, I beg to differ.
More often than not, when you cannot do something, it makes you want to do it more. How many times to do you not have the motivation to go for your run or gym session? Then, the second you can’t go, it is all you want to do?! You crave the feeling of running, and you are envious of those around you exercising.
It’s totally normal to take exercising for granted when we have the ability to do it day in day out. But something that becomes even more apparent when I see athletes not able to run, is the relationship between their running and their mental health.
When you Google “mental health and running” the below comes up:
Running regularly at a moderate or vigorous level can improve your mental health.
Multiple studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise and primarily jogging reduces the symptoms of clinical depression. And according to studies cited by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, running and other forms of vigorous exercise can reduce anxiety symptoms and help you relax.
Running assists the body in producing neurotransmitters in the brain that literally boost one's mood. Increased dopamine and serotonin simply help improve outlook and mood and, in some cases, can offer critical relief to those dealing with symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Makes sense to me! Everyone has different stresses in life. Whether these are stemming from work, family, or a global pandemic, they will occur and challenge your mental wellbeing. Working on your mental health doesn’t need to be taboo or expensive. It can be as simple of doing something that you enjoy or that is good for you. Running is a perfect example here.
Our coached sessions at InnerFight are just as much about bringing people together in the community as they are about getting the work done. Yes, we want you to try, to improve, to hit PBs and goals, but we also want you to be better at life. If this means coming to a session for the social aspect and surrounding yourself with likeminded individuals, then we are more than happy with this. It’s not about being the best or the fastest, from my point of view it's about giving you an hour in your day that is fulfilling and rewarding. You might use a session to escape a hectic household, or to mull over a problem at work, or to catch up with a friend.
For me running after work (when I had an office-based job) was my way of de-stressing and clearing my head, it just so happened that it was also my daily exercise and my commute. Running has brought so much more to my life than some PBs and splits. From the people I have met to the experiences I have had, there are simply too many positive memories to list them all.
Going for a run doesn’t need to be lonely, boring, long, or fast. You can walk, jog, and chat. I encourage you to give it a go, like properly try it. If this means committing to a group session, embrace it!
And to those who sit and watch and say I’m mental for running so much, I beg to differ.
One-Hour Workout: Revving Your Swim Engine
.jpg)
.jpg)
.png)
.jpg)
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
