While some have a passion for running or walking, others may run for health reasons or struggle to find the joy in these activities. Consider trying some of the following ideas on your next walk or run, and don’t hesitate to try out your own unique ideas to make your miles more enjoyable.
- Find a partner or join a group. It can be easy to hit the snooze button on the alarm or come up with excuses but having a partner who is also running or walking could help hold you accountable and ensure you’re getting in your miles. Running or walking groups are also great ways to find accountability and even make new friends. Consider taking your family along on your evening walk for some bonding time or ask a neighbor to join on your morning run.
- Create a playlist with enjoyable, upbeat music. Listening to your favorite tunes or podcasts on the drive to work can make the time in the car more enjoyable, and the same could certainly be true for your runs or walks. According to RunnersWorld, “music is scientifically proven to help boost your physical performance, endurance, and recovery. It’s also been shown to make exercise more enjoyable.” Try loading up a playlist with your favorite songs or ones that motivate you. Depending on where you create a playlist, suggestions and premade playlists may be available as well.
- Wear clothes that make you feel good. As athlete Maria Sharapova once said, “When you look good, you feel good.” While any t-shirt and shorts combo will do, there’s something exciting about wearing clothes you love. Whether it’s new leggings you recently purchased or your favorite pair of running shoes, wearing something you feel confident in can make your run more enjoyable. Don’t forget about comfort and functionality, though, which are just as important to keep in mind when choosing a workout wardrobe.
- Find a scenic route. Preferences vary from person to person but finding a route with interesting visuals like nature or monuments can help make a run or walk more enjoyable. Consider local parks, state forests in your area, or even a walking or running path in your city that passes murals or other outdoor artwork. In the Indianapolis area, for example, the Monon Trail is a popular path with a scenic route and plenty to do in its surrounding areas.
- Add variation. While a well-paced run is great, sometimes the minutes seem to drag on. Consider (safely) challenging yourself with intervals of walking, running, and sprinting for allotted amounts of time. In addition to changing the workout itself, consider finding multiple routes you like to take or trying out a new one. Even finding a new playlist of songs could help you feel recharged.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For further information, please consult a medical professional.
For more information, contact Liz Greer at lgreer@apexbg.com