Page 5 - sample06

Put the Fun in Your Run

Your run should be something that you look forward to every day, not something you
want to put off or avoid. The more fun you make your runs, the more likely you are keep
running. I know myself well enough to realize that I am much more inclined to do some-
thing if I think it’s going to be fun. I also know that I’m not alone in this—who doesn’t
want to have fun, right? The trick is to find a way to make your workout enjoyable and
entertaining.
One way to enliven your run is to take it outdoors. Running in nature is associated
with greater feelings of relaxation and calmness, as well as greater reduction of stress
levels and higher levels of enjoyment. After working inside all day, I definitely find my-
self looking forward to getting outside and filling up my lungs with fresh air. In my city,
one of my favorite after-work runs is a three-mile loop around several local parks. In the
summer, large trees provide extra shade. In the fall I feel like a little kid again as I dash
through piles of leaves. In the winter, the snow (if there ever is any since I live in a desert)
looks beautiful covering the park grounds and in the spring there is nothing like watch-
ing the progression of the flowers growing and blooming day-by-day. Not to mention
that these parks are often filled with neighbors walking dogs, kids playing soccer, and
fellow runners like myself. Running connects me to the world outside and allows me to
feel like part of my community.
Every city has its own beautiful spots and gorgeous settings. Use your runs as an
opportunity to explore where you live. Envision yourself as a tourist in your own town.
Even if you have been living in the same spot for most or all of your life, you can likely
find a location or two you haven’t ever visited or just don’t visit often enough. If you
aren’t too familiar with local trails or parks, try going to your city’s website. Most have