In this episode of Running to the Castle, you’ll learn why motivation isn’t something you either have or don’t—it’s something you build.
Dr. Ali unpacks why so many runners lose motivation during Dopey and marathon training, and why that doesn’t mean you’re lazy or undisciplined.
You’ll hear practical, coach-approved tips like using “workout-only” rewards, setting smaller weekly goals, and slowing your pace to make runs more enjoyable.
Plus, Ali shares a powerful mindset shift: if your training feels terrible every week, motivation won’t fix it—but smarter, more compassionate planning will.
Whether you’re in a slump or just need a boost, this episode will help you find joy in the process again.
Learn more about Stronger. Faster. Finisher. !
Ready to cross the finish line stronger, faster, and prouder at your next runDisney race? Get personalized support, smarter training, and injury-prevention strategies designed specifically for slow, injury-prone, and “not really a runner yet” runners. Learn more about the Stronger. Faster. Finisher. Program today and be the first to know when doors open!
Free Resources
- Follow me on Instagram @rundisneydpt
- Join the Facebook Community to get training support
- Check out FREE training plans for injury-prone runDisney runners on my website.
- Book a Free 30 minute Call with me if you're wondering how you should train and if working together makes sense.
Hi, I'm Dr. Ali
I've been running for 15+ years and been in the rehab space since 2012 when I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree. I get injury prone runDisney runners across the finish line without feeling broken.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
My Favorite Murder is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Each week, Karen and Georgia share compelling true crimes and hometown stories from friends and listeners. Since MFM launched in January of 2016, Karen and Georgia have shared their lifelong interest in true crime and have covered stories of infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker, mysterious cold cases, captivating cults, incredible survivor stories and important events from history like the Tulsa race massacre of 1921. My Favorite Murder is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including historic true crime, comedic interviews and news, science, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include Buried Bones with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, This Podcast Will Kill You, Bananas and more.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.