“Run often and run long, but never outrun your joy of running.” – Julie Isphording
I stumbled on this quote last week, and I think there is a lot of truth here. If you push yourself to run to the point where it’s not fun, then why are you doing it? Maybe for the fitness, sure – but for me running is more than just a method to stay in shape. I have found that mixing up the running by hitting the trails, finding new routes and even playing games or mixing in other sports helps to keep running fun.
Last night I played my first game of treadmill roulette, and I have to say it definitely broke up the boredom that usually rears it’s ugly head when I try to run on a treadmill! Using the higher intensity program, I ran a total of 5 miles in 40 minutes without having to push myself to keep at it on the treadmill (well, not as much as normal). Also, finishing 5 miles in that time is actually pretty good for me, so the roulette kept me pushing my pace more than if I was just running a straight 5 outside. I’d call that a win-win!
….And I’ll take my victories wherever I can find them during winter training!