Running is wonderful, I obviously LOVE running! But, it can get monotonous, stale, and downright boring at times. That’s why you need to mix things up every once in a while! Lately, I’ve been thinking about how to jazz up my routine since these summer miles are tough! Keep reading for my tips on how to spice up your running routine!
Sign Up For a Race
There is a reason why folks keep coming back for more races, they need it to stay excited about running! Having a goal race keeps you focused and gives you something to look forward to during a training cycle, plus you get new bling! Win-win! If you need help choosing your next marathon (or half) check out this post!
Start a Training Program
Similar to signing up for a race, starting a training program for that race will certainly spice up your routine. Even if you aren’t training for something specifically, starting a 5k program, or whatever you choose, will give you new workouts to try and ultimately make you a stronger runner! I LOVE Garmin Coach and have tried all the programs for each distance. Check out my Garmin Coach Half Marathon Review HERE!
Add Workouts to Your Running
So, you don’t want to start a full-fledged training program? That’s okay! Research running workouts online and incorporate one or two into your weekly runs. Even just adding some speed-work mid-run can make a normal run feel exciting and challenging!
Add Cross Training
This isn’t specifically running-related, but if you really need a break from running try swapping in a different workout once a week to mix things up. OR, add some strength training to the end of your run. I’ve recently started doing strength workouts using a Youtube channel and actually really look forward to those workouts. Something different and challenging using muscles you don’t always think about while running.
Download Podcasts
Something I have started to do is listen to podcasts on my long runs. It really breaks up the monotony and gets your mind off slogging through miles. Hit me up with your recommendations if you have any!
Download Playlists
I love my Garmin Venu watch (this is an affiliate link) especially since it pairs with Spotify. Running playlists can be downloaded from Spotify (or several other providers) and uploaded onto the watch. New music ALWAYS spices up my runs!
Run a New Route
This can be as simple as turning down a street you don’t always run, to driving somewhere new and running there. Just make sure wherever you run that it’s a safe area! I live in suburbia, and sometimes running down a few new streets is enough to make my run feel more exciting!
Join a Run Group
If you have a local run group, join them for some runs! It’s always fun to connect with other runners. Running groups are an excellent way to make your runs more exciting!
Buy Gear or Clothes
This might be an occasional activity, but buying new run gear (clothes, shoes, headphones) always gets me excited about running. Even a new pair of socks is enough to get me more jazzed about lacing up!
Now Go For a Run!
Next time you are in a run funk, try some of these things! I know I just downloaded a new running playlist and it made my morning run much more enjoyable =) Also, remember that not every run is going to be amazing, and that’s okay! Just enjoy the fact that you can move your body and be healthy. Now go for a run, and enjoy!
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