Page 6 - sample06

8 A Woman's Step-By-Step Guide to Running

maps (often with marked trails and distances) readily available. You might also try ask-
ing coworkers, friends, or family members where their favorite outdoor spots are and if
it might be a good location for a run. Often people who have been to an area before are
your most reliable resource. Make it an adventure and map out a run to a spot you would
like to explore more. Going to places where you wouldn’t normally go will give you a
new perspective on your own town and perhaps even your own life. In the process, I’m
confident that you will find your own favorite loop or path to run.
Running outside beats running on a treadmill every time in my book. Similarly, run-
ning with a friend is always better than running alone. Practically speaking, if you have
planned to run with a friend, you are much less likely to cancel your run just because
you don’t feel like working out that day. You wouldn’t stand up a friend, right? While a
having a friend go with you on your run may ensure that the run actually happens, the
best part about running with a friend is the company. People are social animals and we
need social interaction to stay healthy and balanced. If you run regularly with a friend,
you will find that your friendship will grow to new heights. Shared experiences are what