As we head into the darkest days of the year, it can be challenging to get your butt out of the door for a workout. In the morning, the warmth of your bed entices you to stay put with a snooze of the alarm. In the evening, 4pm starts to feel like 9pm. I could come up with excuses all day long, but ultimately, you and I need to get on our feet.
When I plant myself down with a motivational read, I find myself trying out a new recipe or starting a new training plan all because of the inspiring words of someone else. Check out a few of my favorite books that will push you to achieve your fitness goals even in the darkest and coldest of days:
5 Motivational Reads to Get You on Your Feet
1) Finding Ultra by Rich Roll
I read Rich’s story when I was training for my first marathon. Reaching an all-time low in his health when he can’t stay active with his children, Rich makes a decision to turn around his life. Finding Ultra shows what a plant-based diet and some serious determination can do in turning your life around. I even considered signing up for an ultra-marathon…until I realized I had to tackle 26.2 miles first. Regardless of your training level, Rich will have you re-thinking how you live your life one step at a time.
2) You are a Badass by Jen Sincero
Whether you’re struggling with relationships in your life or simply the relationship with yourself and your body, Sincero brings the heat in this how-to self help guide geared towards removing doubt and living your best life. With titles such as “Your Brain is your Bitch” and “Fear is for Suckers,” how can you not be inspired to make some changes?
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3) Born to Run by Christopher McDougall
Born to Run is hands down my favorite book of all time. McDougall’s story takes you on an adventure through the Copper Canyons to learn the secrets of the Tarahumara, who run hundreds of miles without rest or injury. Whether you run, do yoga, lift or spin, you will be swept up in the story of how these amazing people are fueled by a simple diet and way of life. Born to Run will leave you feeling exuberant and ready to take on any challenge life has to offer you.
4) Run Fast, Eat Slow by Shalane Flanagan
From 2017 NYC Marathon female champion and Boston local Shalane Flanagan and longtime friend and chef Elyse Kopecky, comes this book filled with nutritious recipes and inspiring stories to get you moving. With over 100 recipes and fascinating anecdotes, Flanagan will have you stocking your fridge with nutritious and energizing food that will change how you work out. You’ve never “read” a cookbook?! Some of my favorite fitness and healthy eating tips come from cookbooks! Take the time to read between Flanagan and Kopecky’s recipes and you’ll discover ways to look past the calories and focus on performance.
5) Daring Greatly by Brene Brown
“When we shut ourselves off from vulnerability, we distance ourselves from the experiences that bring purpose and meaning to our lives.” After reading Daring Greatly, I had an epiphany: if you don’t share your goals and dreams with the people around you, you’re not putting yourself at risk or holding yourself accountable to achieving them. Brown examines the importance of courage and vulnerability and gives you the tools you need to succeed in life, relationships and achieving the goals we aim to accomplish.
Question: What’s your favorite motivational read?
