Running has become something that I look forward to – It’s my time to let loose and tackle any aggression or anxieties that life has thrown at me. Within the first couple of miles, my problems seem to disappear into the sunset (or sunrise) behind me. Running allows me to connect with the earth, relax, and focus on my next breath. Sounds pretty tranquil, huh? The only problem is getting motivated to lace up those shoes. Once I’m out there, I’m typically fine. But, if I follow the same pattern week after week, I will surely find myself less than enthusiastic about my healthy (and mundane) routine. Here are some ways that I have found to help me better enjoy my run.
1. Get a Running Partner – Having a running partner not only motivates you to run, but can make it more enjoyable. It is also a great way to catch up with a friend who you haven’t seen in a while. I have one friend in particular who I meet up with every couple of weeks. We catch up on life, and before we know it, we’re half-way through our run. This can also be a great way to learn about upcoming races. If you don’t have anyone you can think of asking, check out Daily Mile; it’s practically Facebook for runners. You are sure to meet someone on there.
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Love them all. I get great times and further distances when I'm with a running buddy. We also go to a different trail *almost* every time. So it's extra exciting to go to a new place.
I use the RunKeeper app on my phone. It's great b/c you can set interval alerts in distance or time, It also shows your elevation (I average around 9000ft), and you can share on FB and Twitter. (among other features)
I love new gear, I am a slow runner (and that's OK!). Also, The Color Run is really fun. So is the Diva Dash and the Oyster Race!
Your blog is great Brandon 🙂
Thanks for the warm comment Pippi. I should really begin switching up my locations more often. I just get comfortable with a route and stick with it until it becomes natural (but boring). It's okay if your slow, you're still faster than the person on the couch 🙂 The great thing about running, is that we don't have to be a certain speed or reach a specific distance to be called a runner. We just have to run.
The Color Run was a lot of fun! My mom (who never runs) even went and had a blast. I would actually like to try some more of these fun runs. I'm doing the "Beat the Heat 5k" in 15 days. It's a night race, so that should be interesting.
I'm so glad that you are enjoying the blog. Thanks for commenting and have a great weekend!
Night running sounds fun!
VegFest in Denver on Saturday, 12K on Sunday-my weekend is going to be great!
Hey Brandon, great post. You have sparked my interest in the color run. My wife and I have decided to make this our first race ever 🙂 They are coming to Charlotte in October. If your interested, maybe we could ge
t a small group thing going.
That would be cool! It was a lot of fun and I'd definitely run it again. I think I'm running the Greensboro marathon October 26th, so just as long as it's not on the 25th or 26th. That would be awesome to get some folks together. The Color Run is a perfect first race.