Unwind With Your New Running Route

It doesn’t matter if you are new to running or a seasoned marathoner, there are days where we all struggle and it is just downright difficult to get ourselves out the door. At times, the first few minutes of a long run can be just short of torture. You’re out of breath, dripping sweat and counting down the minutes and miles left in your route. Rest assured, there is truly nothing more satisfying than completing a tough workout. The health benefits and sense of accomplishment running brings completely outweighs the struggles of getting started and, with time, it can even become relaxing. Promise!

So, what’s the secret to an enjoyable run? It’s all a matter of finding the right running route for your mindset – one that won’t stress you out. That’s why we have come up with a few tips and tricks to help you find the motivation to lace up your shoes and sweat. Follow our guide below to find a route that best suits your personality and fitness level.

Are you new to running and not sure where to start?
That’s okay! We all have to start somewhere, so it’s best to find a familiar place to begin running. Seek out a spot that will make you comfortable and at ease with your newfound hobby. Be sure to map it out ahead of time, starting with shorter distances to avoid injury and build up endurance. Ease into it, and as you progress, you can change up your run by increasing speed or distance when you are starting to feel like the route is simple. Don’t give up – getting used to running happens quicker than you think.

Do you run often, but find yourself becoming bored?
It happens to the best of us and the easiest way to fight mental fatigue is to look for simple ways to change up your normal routine. Try a new playlist to pump yourself up – find upbeat songs that make you happy or more aggressive tunes that really motivate you. The beautiful thing about running is that you can do it anywhere, anytime, so you don’t have to limit yourself to the same route day in and day out. Hit the road exploring paths and streets you rarely run or challenge yourself by mixing in hills or stairs. You won’t be bored.

Are you motivated by setting goals?
Sign up for a race.  Having some healthy competition and a purpose to running is a fun way to stick with the grueling workouts. Exercising on a treadmill or a local track may be the right training route for you. This allows you to easily monitor your time and distance keeping you on pace to succeed. There are also a plethora of smartphone apps that can do the monitoring for you. Simply open one up, hit go and let your phone keep track of your distance and time.

Would you describe yourself as outgoing and social?
Running is always more fun when you have others around. Find a buddy or join a running club to keep you in the groove of regular runs. Even if it is for just a few miles, it provides the perfect outlet to catch up with friends new and old. Plus, chatting while you sweat adds another element of challenge.

Does adventure give you a thrill?
Exploring the outdoors and new cities is often best by foot. Pack running shoes on your next trip – you’re sure to find some hidden gems you may not have otherwise stumbled upon. If travel isn’t in the near future, be one with nature and go on a trail run in your hometown. It’s fun to find new hotspots or places you haven’t seen in a while.

Running brings so much joy to life and can bring ease to the mind. There are so many new things to see and people to meet that can come from simply going out and pushing yourself to try a new route. Find one that fits your lifestyle and level of activity and go for it.

Happy trails!