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Heading out for a run always sounds like a great idea in theory.
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Even thoughrunningsometimes feels like literal hell, theres hope for those of us who really, reallywantto enjoy running.
Going for a run may not always be mind-blowingly amazing, but it doesnt have to suck.
Here are eight things you could do to help make those tough runs feel way better.
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Barnes surefire method is simpleshe runs in leggings.
No contact, no problem.
(Psstthese fixes are great for hot, humid days when youre not actually running, too.)
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you’ve got the option to justfeela painful blister forming.
And once it starts, it seems like theres no stopping a blister in its tracks.
Heat and moisture also up the chance for blisters.
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To prevent painful blisters, choose synthetic, non-cotton socks, like a wicking poly-blend sock, suggests Berard.
you could also useBody Glidebetween your toes to prevent blister-causing friction there, he adds.
And, of course, confirm your shoes fit correctly.
That lungs-are-burning feeling might be a sign that youre pushing too hard.
Here’s more on exactlyhow you should breathe during a run.
Breathing properly is also important if you get an annoying side stitch out of nowhere.
Warner suggests thatspeed work and intervalsmake up one-third of your overall running program.
(Plus, it’samazing for burning fat, if thats one of your goals.)
Sometimes running can bereallyboring.
Especially those long, slow, endurance training runs.
Mixing up your route so that you’re not trudging along the same miles every single time.
Having some solid music to jam to is also a must.
Turn running into a community activity.
No club nearby?Grab a buddy to run withit thats what gets you motivated.
Chafing is just the beginning of #runnerprobz when it comes to extra-toasty days.
In most cases, runners will tire more quickly in the heat than they would in cooler temperatures.
Try slowing down your pace by 30 seconds for every five degrees above 55 degrees, explains Warner.
Dress smartly, too.
No cotton anything, says Berard.
Select light clothes made from synthetic materials designed to wick sweat away from the body.
This will help prevent you from overheating.
Shin pain can really get in the way of that runners high youre after.
Increase your mileage safely and ensure that youre wearing theproper running shoes, says Berard.
Also, try incorporating gentle calf stretches, likethese, before and after your runs.
Skipping water entirely isnt a great option either, though.
Download an app likeOasisPlacesto help keep track of where water fountains around your run path are.
On really hot days, I wear a Camelback so I can double-check to stay hydrated, says Barnes.
Its definitely worth troubleshooting whatevers going on, because running can be an incredible.
Im a total convert, says Barnes.
And it’s possible for you to be, tooor not, and thats OK, too.
It’s all about finding the workout works best foryou.
