How to Cope When Running Feels Out of Reach
There’s nothing quite like the frustration of an injury that won’t go away.
Especially when running is part of who you are. You’ve spent years hitting the trails, building fitness, enjoying that post-run high—and now? You’re benched. Stuck. Watching others rack up the kms while you struggle to even look at a running post without feeling gutted.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. So many runners—whether beginners or seasoned—go through periods where injury doesn’t just mess with the body, but with the mind too.
Let’s talk about that.
The Motivation Slump Is Real
One of the hardest parts of a long-term injury isn’t just the physical pain or rehab—it’s the loss of motivation. That foggy, deflated, can’t-be-bothered feeling where even your go-to podcasts and playlists don’t help. It can feel like you’re no longer part of the running world.
And when the rehab that used to work doesn’t seem to cut it this time, it’s easy to start questioning everything. Will I ever come back? Do I even want to?
That’s a heavy place to be. But it’s not the end of your story.
When the Mojo Disappears
It might sound strange, but sometimes the best thing you can do is stop trying to get the mojo back.
Give yourself permission to take a step back. Not forever—but just for now. Let go of the pressure to keep up or stay “in the zone.” Switch off the running feeds. Mute the Strava notifications. It’s OK to take a break from that world if it’s making you feel worse, not better.
This isn’t giving up. It’s protecting your mental health—and that’s just as important as any training plan.
Movement That Feels Good Still Counts
Maybe you’ve swapped your runs for swimming, cycling, strength work, or even walking. That’s not “less than.” That’s smart. You’re still moving. You’re still showing up for yourself. And that matters more than whether your activity involves running shoes.
Those choices might not give you the same buzz, but they’re keeping you strong. They’re giving your body space to heal. And in the long run (pun not intended), they’ll make your return to running—if and when it happens—so much more doable.
You’re Still a Runner
Even if you haven’t run in six months… you’re still a runner.
Being a runner isn’t about your weekly mileage or race medals. It’s about your mindset. It’s about caring about movement. It’s about missing it when it’s gone. It’s about knowing that, deep down, you’re not done—you’re just on pause.
You can come back. On your timeline, not anyone else’s.
A Word About Support
Injuries can feel isolating. The world keeps running without you—literally—and that can mess with your head. That’s why having a place where people get it is so important.
If you’re looking for a judgement-free, no-pressure space to connect with others who understand the ups and downs of this journey, check out the Runners Gateway community. We’re not about PBs and race times. We’re about progress, compassion, and showing up—however that looks today.
Whether you’re on the comeback trail or still trying to figure out where to begin again, you’re welcome here.
You don’t have to force anything. You don’t have to pretend everything’s fine. You just have to keep the door open.
Because your running story isn’t over—it’s just finding a new rhythm!
