Lets be honest,runningisnt known for being easy.
Even professional athletes who run for a living admit that yeah, sometimes it can be really hard.
Also,engage your core.
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“If your chest is going side to side, your energy is going that way.
If a set mileage or time goal feels daunting, set mini goals throughout your run.
There are so many different variations you could do.
Youll feel a renewed sense of accomplishment each time you hit one.
Sometimes running feels hard because you’ve fallen into a routine and it’s become boring.
“Find a different way or go on new roads that are more visually stimulating,” Bottini suggests.
“It may go by a little faster if youre running and seeing new spots.”
A dynamic warm-up includes movements such as high-knee marches that stretch your muscles as you move.
And dont forget to cool down after, too!
If you force yourself to get the mileage in, then it just becomes a chore.
Of course youre breathing.
Sometimes simply controlling your breath can make running easier.
I think about that when Im running, and it always puts some extra pep in my step.
Over time,your comfortable pace will get faster.
There’s nothing worse than running with uncomfortable clothes, Fitzgerald says.
The dreaded chafing can occur from having clothes loose in a certain area.
When we’re uncomfortable, we make adjustments to prevent that painful feeling.
This is compensation, and can result in you running differently, with bad form.
Ditch clothes that rub or squeeze too tightly.
If you’re really not feeling a run, mix it up by adding some strength intervals throughout.
“Run five minutes and then stop and dosquatsand push-ups,” Bottini suggests.
“Or even, if you’re running at a track, initiate the stadium stairs.
Not that it will make running easier, but it makes the run more fun.”
Have you ever tried trail running?
Maybe nows the time.
Ive gotten my longest runs in on trails, Bottini says.
One, its easier on body, theres its less impact.
And two, youre varying pace and intensity so much because of the terrain.
All of this makes the run a lot more interesting, and keeps youliterally and figurativelyon your toes.
Like, when you think you must be running so fast, but then realize youre totally not.
Dont pay attention, just run according to how you feel, she says.
Bottini suggests going for a run/walk, especially ifyoure a beginner.
They really help, seriously.
If youre having a tough time keeping your head in the game, think about why youre running.
What are your goals?
Is it race related?
Is it health related?
Are you trying to PR, or just finish the race?
Whatever that goal is, keep it in mind throughout the run to stay present,” Fitzgerald says.
“For example, if you are training for a race, visualize yourself succeeding in that race.
If you run for fun, then just get lost in your run and have fun with it.
Enjoy the process and the journey of becoming and staying a healthy, strong runner.”
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