I hate running.
I shouldn’t have started out this article this way, but I need to be truthful. Running is the one thing I do not feel excited about doing. Yes, I do get an exercise “high” when I’m done, but I do not look forward to starting a run. I have found ways of making running easier for me. I know how much I’ve recommended running as a form of cardio-respiratory exercise, so it’s only fair that I make it easy as possible for you too; nobody likes to undertake difficult tasks.
1. Short Strides, Happy Run. Shortening your stride means that you’re taking more steps per minute. This actually saves energy and stops you from getting tired quickly.
2. Lean Forward. This is a means of taking some of the work off your legs. Leaning forward from the ankles helps you push forward and lets gravity help you out while you run.
3. Keep your eyes on the horizon. This is literally like looking at the prize. Keeping your eyes on the proverbial finish line makes your run seem shorter, because the target seems closer. You can save the sight-seeing for the walk home.
4. Relax. Keep your arms relaxed, because tensing your shoulders wastes energy that can be spent running. You can switch up the motion of your arms to keep from stiffening them.
5. Switch it up. You don’t need to run the whole distance; you can break the stretch into a run, a light jog a cool-off run, and then a sprint to the finish. This way, you don’t overwhelm your legs and you give them time to rest in between.
6. Drink up! Losing hydration via sweat can be very dangerous. It can lead to cramps and even heat exhaustion which results in death. Keep a bottle of water nearby to keep your body hydrated.
7. Music is key. Sometimes the hardest thing about running is the boredom. To help pass the time, tag along with a running buddy, or download some pod casts, audiobooks, or new music. Hit me up if you need my Nike+ playlist.
Have you found other ways to make your run easier? Please share in the comments section. Stay healthy guys!