The Early Bird Gets the Run: Embrace the 5 AM Wake-Up Call

Happy Monday, runners!

Have you ever stopped to think about what time you wake up in the morning and how it affects your day? More specifically, what time you go for a run (or just exercise in general)? This might be a simple question, but it’s a question that can have a profound impact on your daily routine and overall well-being.

As a runner, the time you choose to hit the pavement can make a significant difference in your performance and motivation. Today, I want to share why waking up early–especially at 5 AM– can be a game-changer for your running and your life. Yes, groan all you want, but it’s truly the secret recipe for the rest of your day.

The Power of an Early Start

Waking up early in the morning, particularly at 5 AM, is not just about getting a head start on the day. It’s about setting a tone of discipline, productivity and focus that can carry you through all your activities. Early risers often find that they have more time to plan, think and reflect before the chaos of the day begins. This quiet time in the morning allows for a period of uninterrupted concentration, which can be incredibly beneficial for personal growth and achieving long-term goals.

Think about it: no one is awake, you’re the only one. You’re one of the very few who get to see the sun rise every morning and can complete half of your day before most people even make their coffee. You’re one of a kind.

My Journey to the 5 AM Club

So I’ve been listening to the audiobook of Robin Sharma’s “The 5 AM Club,” and decided to experiment with waking up at 5 AM every day (I’m on week 4 by the way). At first, it was challenge, no doubt. I wanted to stay in bed, and sacrificing those precious morning hours to sleep seemed daunting. However, I was determined to make a change and see how it would impact my life and my running routine.

The first few days were tough. My body protested against the sudden shift in schedule, and I found myself struggling to stay awake during the day. But as I persevered, I started to feel more energized and focused. Just for your information, I reverted back to a sucky 7:20 km pace on day one because my body was unsure what the hell I was doing at an ungodly hour. Just this morning I went back to a nice 5:49 km pace. So, progress.

My mornings became a sanctuary of productivity where I could tackle everything on my to-do list before the rest of the world even woke up.

The Benefits of Waking Up at 5 AM

Alright, let’s go through the benefits of waking up before anyone else for us runners:

1. More Time for Running: This is why this is number one! One of the most significant benefits I noticed was having more time for my morning runs. Without the rush of getting read for work or other commitments, I could enjoy my runs more thoroughly (especially being able to do those long runs where I would need 2 hours for myself). The cool, crisp morning air and the quiet streets made for a serene running environment that was both peaceful and invigorating.

2. Enhanced Mental Clarity: Waking up early gave me a sense of mental clarity that I had never experienced before. Those early morning hours are perfect for reflection, planning and setting intentions for the day. This mental clarity translated into more focused and effective runs, where I could concentrate on my form, breathing, and pace on my own time without any distractions.

3. Improved Physical Health: Studies have shown that waking up early can have numerous health benefits. It helps regulate your body’s internal clock, leading to better sleep quality and overall health. Early risers often have more consistent sleep patterns, which is crucial for recovery and performance in running.

4. Increased Productivity: With more time in the morning, I found myself accomplishing tasks that I would usually procrastinate on. This sense of achievement early in the day set a positive tone for the rest of my activities, making me more productive and efficient.

5. A Sense of Accomplishment: C’mon, you have to give yourself a self high-five after waking up this early, that’s the first achievement in the day! There’s a unique sense of accomplishment that comes with waking up before the sun rises. Get out of bed: win. Get out of the house and go for a run or walk: win. See the sun rise: win. This feeling can be incredibly motivating and can spill over into other areas of your life.

The Importance of 5 AM

You might wonder, why 5 AM specifically? What makes this hour so special? According to Robin Sharma, this hour is a period of unparalleled quietude and solitude. It’s during this time that you can connect yourself on a deeper level, free from the distractions and demands of the day. This concept is known as the “Victory Hour,” where you dedicate the first hour of your day to personal development activities like exercise, meditation and learning. But hear it from him, not me.

By waking up at 5 AM, you give yourself the gift of time. Time to invest in yourself, to nurture your mind and body, and to prepare for the day ahead. This early start can create a ripple effect, enhancing your productivity, creativity and overall well-being.

Wake Up!

If you’re looking for a way to boost your running routine and improve your overall quality of life, I encourage you to try waking up at 5 AM. It may be challenging at first, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Start by setting a consistent bedtime, gradually adjusting your wake-up time, and creating a morning routine that excites you.

Imagine the possibilities that await you in those early morning hours. Picture yourself running through quiet streets, feeling the cool breeze on your face and experiencing the peace that comes with knowing you have an entire day ahead of you. Embrace the challenge, join the 5 AM Club, and discover a new level of motivation and productivity in your running and beyond.

So, what time will you wake up at tomorrow? Will you seize the opportunity to transform your mornings and your life? The choice is yours (it is, I’m not stopping you). Wake up early, run with purpose, and unlock your full potential. The road to greatness starts at 5 AM.

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