Bored With Running? Make it Fun Again!

By Donna Stark

With your favorite races being canceled and the summer temperatures being hotter than usual, it's no wonder that your motivation for running has decreased. And because your motivation isn't there like it used to be, your entire fitness routine is probably out of whack. Fortunately, you don't need to panic as there are some ways to get back on track. Take a look at the following tips that can really make a difference in your workouts.

Try Something New

Avoid getting bored and burned out with running by adding something different to your runs. Explore new roads and trails, increase your speed or distance, and incorporate a variety of "obstacles," such as hills, surfaces (grass, sand, and dirt), and different times throughout the day. By trying something new with your weekly runs, your excitement may come back.

Give Yourself a Break

Since many of the races have been canceled for the season, you can probably spend your time running for enjoyment now instead of obsessing over how you are going to beat a certain time. This is the perfect opportunity to take a trip down memory lane, to when you first began this sport and when you first fell in love the idea of going for a run. So, take off your fitness watch and engage yourself with the simple beauty of running.

Enrich Your Mind

Now that you are hitting the road for the sheer enjoyment of running, why not listen to some of those podcasts or audiobooks you have been pushing to the side? Doing so can definitely make your run more enjoyable and you may even get the chance to learn a thing or two!

Join a Virtual Race

Sure, it's not nearly as good as the real thing, but if you want to continue running while showing your support for a certain cause or organization, check to see if they are offering any virtual races this season. And if they aren't, organize one on your own! Even though it would be through social media sites, a virtual race could still be a really fun way to connect with all of your racing friends.

Killing the Boredom

With just a few changes to your running routine, you may be able to find some extra motivation that will help keep you on the trails! But if the tips above don't work, try taking a break. It can't hurt and you know that the roads and trails will always be there, waiting for your return!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Temecula, Calif.