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4 Ways to Make Your Run More Enjoyable

By Victoria Meisinger

Working out requires a lot of motivation. Not many people can get up and complete an intense workout just for the fun of it. We need a reason or else we won’t do it. However, no matter how important your reason is (to burn fat, feel more confident, etc.) there still needs to be at least some enjoyment, right? Well here are four ways you can make running a little less unbearable.

Listen to Music

I’ve never heard of a long distance runner who didn’t listen to music, if not something else. Music is a great way to distract your mind from the run and add a little entertainment. It can also pass the time a lot quicker, keeping your enthusiasm up and the adrenaline pumping. However it’s best not to listen to the same songs over and over. Mix it up a little bit, try new ones, just keep it interesting!

Play an Audiobook

Sometimes music just doesn't cut it, especially on long runs. You need something that will keep you engaged for a more extended amount of time. Something that allows you to become fully immersed and less focused on the long, strenuous task at hand. Audiobooks are the solution to this problem. They can keep you entertained for hours at time, especially if you’re an avid reader.

Change the Scenery

A lot of people associate running with the treadmill. This is problematic because unless you’re doing a short run (1-3 miles), running on a treadmill can seem longer or feel as though you’re not making much progress. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Sometimes a change in scenery is all it takes. It shows you visually how far you’ve gone and gives you a stronger sense of accomplishment. It also puts you in the moment, and less in your head, which means fewer thoughts of “I can’t do this,” or “I want to give up.” So find a nice set of trails or an easy route around the neighborhood, but don’t repeat the same laps over and over; just like a treadmill, this can get old fast.

Run Early in the Morning

Not everyone feels comfortable running in public. This can be one of the biggest obstacles in completing a good run. However if you go early in the morning when it’s still dark, I promise you won’t run into many people, and the air will be cooler than midday, when the sun is at it’s highest peak. It’s also the optimal time for weight loss, right before breakfast, because it boosts your metabolism and speeds up digestion. In fact, some studies show that a good run can give you about the same boost of energy as a cup of coffee because it produces a lot of adrenaline. A good morning workout can also be very beneficial to your self-esteem. You can now go through your day knowing you’ve already completed a nice workout and induce more body positive thoughts. If you’re a night runner, this is also a safer alternative, because there are fewer people on the roads and you won’t run into many night owls.

Running can get long and tedious, but if you find the right tools, it can be a very positive experience. Just remember to shake it up and keep things interesting. It won’t always be easy, but at least it won’t be boring.

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Draper, Utah.

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