Total Basset Case: Enjoying The Run

Mar 17, 2014

Enjoying The Run

I think anyone that has lifted one foot in the front of the other on a run knows that there are good days and there are bad days.
There are those days that feel like you could run for miles (and those are so, so awesome) and there are those days that feel like you had tree limbs attached to your body and are running through quick sand. 
The only, and I repeat only, good thing about those AWFUL runs is that they make you appreciate your good and even mediocre runs.  And that there is a 99% chance your next run will be great.  Even if its just an okay run, it's better than a mud run any day.
To me, running is a funny thing.  You would think that just going out, using the legs attached your body and hitting the pavement, things would be the same every single time.  Turns out they aren't but I think that's what makes you a runner.  Those hard, awful runs and those awesome, fantastic runs make you a well rounded runner and athlete. 
And as I said on Instagram last week, some runs are out of this world and some are like running through mud. But at least I know my next run after a terrible one is destined to be stellar (puns intended).

Though my running career has been short and I have many miles ahead of me, there are a few things I've learned about making the miles more enjoyable and tolerable.

1. Music - If I am running alone, 99% of the time I have music on.  I need upbeat, fast paced tunes to keep me going.  Currently I've been loving the Rhianna station on Pandora with some Miley thrown in. Most days I like the distraction of the music to keep me going.
2. Or no music - When I started running I thought that it was absolutely insane that people ran without music.  How do you not lose your mind? How does it not make you feel like you've been running for 14 hours?!  But then the more I ran, the easier it became.  If I get separated from my running group on Saturday mornings and don't have my music, it's not that big of a deal.  It's actually a great time to clear my head, think about life, write blog posts, compose my grocery list, etc.  I prefer to run with music or with other people but I'm finally to the stage that if I don't have either of those, it isn't the end of the world.
3. Running buddies - I am so thankful for my running group and I suggest that if you are interested in getting involved in running (you should!) a running group is key.  I love that knowing that at least 2 days a week those people are going to keep my accountable for running.  It is a whole new group of friends that are interested in what I'm interested in and love running as much as I do.  Plus they are fun and love to drink wine soooo I can get on board with that.  But honestly, a running group is a great support system and I swear runners are some of the nicest people in the world.  And it gives you someone to talk to while you run.  Nothing makes miles go by faster than some good ol fashioned girl talk.  
4. Switch it up - Our running group does 'speed work' or track work outs once a week.  And while I usually hate them while I'm doing them, they are great for 1. improving your speed and 2. switching up your routine.  Pounding the pavement a few days a week is great but for any sort of improvement you have to switch up your routine, just like with any fitness regime.  Your body needs change and something unexpected.  For my running, taking laps around around a high school track is just the ticket.  
5. Running gear - This may be totally vain but it works for me.  New running gear and clothes get me very, very excited for my next run.  There are SO many cute, cheap options out there (some of my favorite stuff is from Marshalls or TJ Maxx) and I love treating myself to new gear.  P.s. Target just rolled out some cute new stuff...
Not to mention, the right gear makes all the difference.  There is a reason there is such a big market for running clothes, gear and shoes.  Those pieces really can help or hinder your run.  I have found pieces that work for me and those that don't.  

So no matter the distance or if it's a bad running day or a great one, just get out there and run and I promise the next one will be better!

15 comments:

Brooke said...

Running gear always helps me : ) I agree that no matter the distance, just get out there and run! These are some great tips.

Caitlin said...

Thanks for sharing this! I am totally motivated by running gear, too - Gap has great stuff and feels like it's always 35-45% off with their frequent online sales.

Hilliary Meisner said...

Completely agree on the whole good days and bad days with running! I am one of those runners that doesn't run with music and I literally think about everything!

Helene in Between said...

i really wish i ran. it just seems like the cool kids do it. especially wish i had the running gear like those leggings! music, i have to have it or I can't work out at all!

Kelli Gilbert said...

totally with you on the good/bad days of running! and i can go for miles with no music--and I've just learned to love it--the sound of your feet hitting the pavement, uneven breathing, the open road, and just your thoughts! there's something awesome about that. cute blog!

Because Shanna Said So said...

Gah, why can't I be motivated like you...why can't I enjoy it? Want to do it? Just go for it? I REALLY wish I had it in me to hit the pavement...but I don't and I live vicariously through all of you rock star runners!!

Allison said...

I wish I enjoyed running! Maybe if I had some awesome running leggings like yours I would be a running star. Pun intended. Haha.

Sarah Tucker said...

Seriously, you've inspired me! I have worked out two weeks straight...with 3 rest days, but wow! I am on a roll with the running then doing a video at home. And I bought some new running gear so I am all hyped up :)

jackie jade said...

love those leggings :) i'm not a runner but have been trying to get back into the gym more. and today was a day that just felt good - so i know what you mean!

Kayla MKOY said...

Running with new gear makes me SO excited! Like, new shoes and fun leggings or shorts make me WANT to hit the pavement!!! Loving those leggings you have in your picture. You inspire me, ma'am!!

Unknown said...

I miss being able to just WALK with my friend! I took mobility for granted for all of these years, and now am concerned (because I did give up "worry" for Lent, didn't I....?) that I may never be totally pain free again. You are so right to cherish this ritual.

Unknown said...

I'm not an avid runner, but when I do go out it's usually for 3 or 4 miles which I think is pretty decent. I must have music to get my through! But sometimes my ipod dies and it's not too bad to just listen to the noises around you. But I totally agree on having the right gear! I just got these new shoes from New Balance called Fresh Foam and they are sooooo comfortable! Having cute clothes is also a huge motivator for me.

Because of Jackie said...

I love this! I am not a runner, but I find these tips work for working out in general, too. I am a big fan of music while running (ha, fast walking!), and new workout clothes are the BEST;)

The Lady Okie said...

Yes to everything.

Anne said...

Catching up on blog reading while I eat breakfast before heading out for my long run for the week... and though I'm not coming off a bad run or anything, these thoughts are still some helpful motivation! I always get a bit anxious before a long run, but I need to just think about getting out there and enjoying the run, rather than thinking about the number of miles or how fast I do them... Happy running, lady :)