Running with Joy: How to Make Your Runs Enjoyable and Exciting

March 05, 2017

Running can be an incredibly meditative and refreshing experience, a chance to escape the chaos of daily life and connect with the rhythm of your own body. However, let's face it; there are days when the thought of lacing up those running shoes and hitting the pavement seems about as enticing as a root canal. We've all been there! But fear not, fellow runners, because in this blog post, we're here to share some tips on how to increase your enjoyment of running and actually look forward to it with a smile on your face. So, grab your running shoes and get ready to infuse a dose of excitement into your running routine!

Mindfulness: Running as a Sensory Experience

One of the secrets to making running enjoyable is to treat it as a sensory experience. It's all about grounding yourself in the present moment and letting go of the worries and distractions that can often clutter our minds. Mindfulness can be a powerful tool to achieve this.

As you prepare for your run, take a moment to clear your mind. Forget about the never-ending to-do list, the deadlines, and the grocery shopping you have to do later. Focus on the here and now.

Here's a simple exercise to kickstart your mindful running journey:

1. See: As you start your run, look for five things you can see right now. It could be the cracks in the sidewalk, the friendly neighbor's cat lounging in the sun, or the vibrant flowers in a nearby garden. Notice the colors, shapes, and details.

2. Hear: Listen for five things you can hear right now. It might be the wind rustling through the leaves of trees, the distant hum of cars on the street, or even the rhythm of your own breath. Pay attention to the different sounds that surround you.

3. Feel: Shift your focus to your body. Notice five things you can feel right now. It could be the sensation of your toes snug in your running shoes, a slight itch on your lower back, or the warmth of the sun on your skin. Feel these sensations without judgment.

As you engage your senses, keep taking deep breaths. This exercise will help you stay grounded in the present and make your run feel more like an immersive experience than a mundane task.

New Routes: Exploring the Adventure in Your Neighborhood

Running the same old route day in and day out can indeed become monotonous. If you've been feeling stuck in a running rut, it's time to shake things up and inject some excitement into your routine. Thankfully, we live in an age where technology can be your trusty sidekick in the quest for new running adventures.

There are multiple apps and websites dedicated to helping you discover new routes in your neighborhood or nearby trails. These tools are your virtual treasure maps, guiding you to hidden gems you might not have known existed. The prospect of exploring unfamiliar territory can reignite the spark of curiosity and make your run much more thrilling.

So, why not plan for a shorter run and use some of that extra time to reach a new, beautiful running destination? Who knows what delightful surprises await you just around the corner?

Running Groups/Crews: Building Camaraderie and Cheers

Running doesn't have to be a solitary pursuit. If you find the idea of running alone less than inspiring, consider joining a local running group or crew. These communities are filled with people who share your passion for running and often have creative ways to make the experience more enjoyable.

One of the perks of joining a running group is the social aspect. You'll meet new people who are just as enthusiastic about running as you are. Plus, many of these fantastic crews like to gather at local brew pubs after their runs. So, not only do you get to log those miles, but you also get to know your new running buddies over a refreshing post-run beverage. It's a win-win situation!

Running with others can be motivating and fun. You can challenge each other, share tips, and encourage one another to keep going when the going gets tough. Who knew that running could lead to such great friendships and post-run cheers?

Reward Yourself: Making Every Run an Exciting Treat

Let's be honest; who doesn't love a good reward? Incorporating rewards into your running routine can be a fantastic way to turn each run into something you genuinely look forward to. It's like having a carrot at the end of the stick, but in this case, the carrot could be a lot more fun!

Start by identifying what you love most in life—what brings you pure joy and satisfaction. Is it a peaceful catnap in the afternoon? A small bowl of your favorite ice cream? A soothing bubble bath that takes you to cloud nine? Whatever it is, why not use it as a tantalizing incentive to motivate your runs?

Here are some creative ways to incorporate rewards into your running regimen:

1. Post-run Treats: Plan to enjoy your favorite treat after your run once or twice a week. Maybe you'll go that extra mile knowing there's a delicious gelato shop waiting for you at the end of your route. Or perhaps you'll sneak in a quick run during your lunch break and treat yourself to a delectable lunchtime dessert.

2. Time for Yourself: Adjust your schedule to create pockets of time for relaxation. Go for an early morning run and leave work a bit early to beat the rush hour traffic. Arrive home before the kids do and indulge in a rejuvenating nap or a luxurious bubble bath. These moments of self-care can make your entire day feel brighter.

3. Run for a Cause: Sign up for charity runs or events that support causes close to your heart. Knowing that your run contributes to something meaningful can be a powerful motivator. Plus, many of these events come with fun perks like medals, T-shirts, and post-race celebrations.

Running is a beautiful journey that can be both meditative and exhilarating. However, it's entirely normal to have those days when the motivation to run seems elusive. The key to making running enjoyable and something to look forward to lies in embracing mindfulness, exploring new routes, connecting with running groups, and rewarding yourself for your hard work.

So, the next time you lace up your running shoes, remember to be present in the moment, open yourself up to new adventures, consider joining a running crew, and treat yourself to some delightful rewards. With these strategies in your running arsenal, you'll find that each run becomes a joyful experience, and you'll be eagerly anticipating your next stride on the pavement.

Thanks for reading. Stay safe, be seen, and Own The Night!