How's your race training going? Having fun yet? Here are some tips for shaking it up!

Story by: Norton Healthcare on April 20, 2018

Are you having fun training yet? Hitting the pavement for a training run can get mundane. You can fall into a rut doing the same thing and running in the same places day after day.

Here are some tips to shake it up a bit and have a little fun:

• Run with a group or a partner. Fast or slow, most everyone likes company on their runs — especially the long ones. The miles go faster when you have someone to chat with or share a laugh along the way. 
• Have a four-legged friend that needs some exercise? Bring your dog on your run. Be sure your dog is fit enough for your route and that there’s a place along the way to stop for a drink of water. You both need to stay hydrated. 
• Make a new playlist. Music can help motivate you through the tougher miles, plus who doesn’t like to play “air drums” while running? Remember, if you are in a high-traffic area or running with a partner, keep the volume low or use only one earbud so you can hear your surroundings. 
• Instead of music, listen to a podcast or an audiobook when your playlist starts getting stale. 
• Change up your pace during your run. Open up your stride for a block and then bring it back for the next block. You’ll cover ground a bit faster, too. 
• Leave your watch at home. Just run. You might concentrate a bit more on how your body is feeling and you might enjoy the scenery rather than checking on your distance and pace. 
• Want to spend time with a friend who doesn’t run? Have them ride a bike to keep you company. Better yet, have them bring along a backpack with your nutrition and hydration needs. 
• Run somewhere new. Go to another part of town. Run through a park you’ve only read about. Remember to be smart by mapping your route and taking safety precautions. 
• Take a “selfie” every few miles and then post your best poses on social media when you’re done. It’s OK to let folks know about your progress. 
• High-fives for everyone! Challenge yourself to high-five at least five strangers on your run. You’ll make someone smile and it will help take your mind off your miles.