Tips for an Easy, More Fun & Effective Run

Sharon Moore February 04, 2015

Running is not only good for your mental and emotional health. It is also good for your physical health. Running is a great form of exercise that does more than get you in shape. Many runners swear by the amazing benefits it brings, from stronger bones and leaner muscles, to better mood and happiness.

And whether you are new to running or has been doing it for quite a while now, here are some tips that can keep you motivated, and turn such amazing workout into something more fun and enjoyable!

Find a running partner.

Running becomes more fun and engaging when you have a partner. A running buddy also makes you run, even if you don’t enjoy it at the time. Beating each other’s records is also a healthy way to motivate yourself to keep pushing harder.

Be progressive.

Don’t feel bad if after just five minutes, you can’t continue running or your heart feels like it’s about to explode. Don’t train too hard or too fast. Or else, you run the risk of injuring your body. Know your body and its limitations, and push it without hurting yourself.

Stay hydrated.

Make sure you drink water after 15 minutes or so. When you are running, your body is also losing lots of water. You have to replenish it to sustain the energy you need. Furthermore, keeping hydrated is a great way to wash out those toxins from your body.

Try running on a soft ground.

A soft ground reduces your risk of knee injuries and joint issues.

Snack after you run.

Running uses a lot of your energy. So even if you are dieting, you have to snack. Just make sure you are eating the right food. Lighter, calorie-dense snacks will keep you full, like banana. It will give you an energy boost to help you recover as soon as possible.

Breathe slowly.

Proper breathing is one of the hardest issues that both beginner and intermediate runners encounter. But it is the most important. Breathe slowly. Otherwise, not all CO2 leaves your lungs, so they receive less oxygen. Even when you’re running, breathe slowly and try to relax. That’s the secret to running without stopping.

Push your chest forward.

Imagine like you are being led by your chest. This reduces the chances of you running with your shoulders hunched over, which makes it harder for you to breathe properly, while putting strain on the neck.

Be present.

Don’t let your mind get carried away with thoughts. You need to focus whenever you run. Thinking further ahead (like how long it would take you to reach your destination or how much time is left) can demotivate you as it can seem like a lot of work. When you live in the moment, you could find yourself really enjoying your run.

Make sure you get enough sleep.

However, make sure your running time isn’t cutting into your sleeping time. Being well rested improves performance and helps recovery time, so make sure to get a good night’s sleep beforehand.

Do you have some running practices that you find really effective? Share them by posting a comment below.