8 Tips to Enjoy Running More

Sharon Moore September 23, 2014

Running is more than a good way to get in shape. More and more studies are showing that it benefits every part of your body, and lifts your mood as well. Research suggests running can raise your levels of good cholesterol and boost your lung function. Furthermore, it can help lower your risk of breast cancer, stroke, osteoporosis, diabetes, and many other chronic illnesses. What’s more, running can provide a noticeable boost to your confidence and self-esteem. Isn’t that amazing?

Running is fun. But sometimes, it’s feels difficult, especially when you feel like you’re not making any progress.
Here are some sure-fire ways to make your next running session more enjoyable:

Slow down.
If you think running is about speed, you’re wrong. Unless you are a professional runner, or you’ve been doing it for years, there’s no need to rush. If you’re having trouble running consistently, just slow down. Think of it as a physical activity – a movement. Running for short bursts now and then is a good way to start. Running slowly makes it more comfortable. Over time, you will see progress on your speed, and you will be delighted.

Set reasonable goals.
So you hit your goal yesterday? Try doubling it today and see what happens. Running is more fun when you are making progress. Each day you run, you will feel stronger and more capable of running more.

Get inspired.
Look for someone to inspire you to reach your running goals. That person could be a world-famous athlete, or a friend or colleague who has become fitter and leaner because of running. When you are inspired, you will feel more motivated to run longer and farther!

Get trained.
A fitness trainer or running coach can help make running a lot easier and enjoyable for you. Every time you join a marathon, consider training weeks ahead. This way, you can prepare yourself physically and mentally.

Use the right gears.
Since it’s running, you don’t need much. A good pair of running shoes and comfortable outfit is enough. However, you can make it more fun by bringing an iPod. Be smart about headphones and traffic. You can also bring a GPS to log your miles. Fitness apps that measure how many steps you’ve made and how many calories you’ve burned can add to your motivation too.

Focus on your goals.
Visualise yourself achieving your running goal. You may feel like you can’t breathe anymore in the middle of the road but once you get through it, it feels fantastic!

Get a running buddy.
Yes, running is so much fun when you are with someone. It could be a friend or a family member. It could be your partner. Pick the best running partner to help you go faster, farther, and more often – not the one who always has excuses.

Choose a good place for running.
Find a nice location where you can run without fearing that a car could hit you, or where you can inhale toxic fumes from pollution. Run where there are fewer distractions and more greens so your physical activity becomes much enjoyable and comfortable.