4 Tips To Make Your Running Routine More Comfortable
We can go on all day about how great a running routine makes you feel in the long run. (That pun was an accident, I promise.) It releases endorphins, it helps tackle depression, it boosts self-esteem – all that good stuff.
But let’s be brutally honest with ourselves. Sometimes, going for a long workout makes you feel pretty uncomfortable!
It’s not really expected that you feel comfortable all the time. After all, you’re pushing your body to its limits. It’s not too much of a problem for the most dedicated. But for those who are trying to get into exercising, it can be a real turn-off.
Tips For Your Running Routine
Below are some small steps you can take to make your running routine feel more comfortable. Check them out!
1. Get More Comfortable Shoes
Or at least some padding!
That old pair you got for a bargain a few years back? Yeah, chances are they’re not going to be doing your feet any favors. Or your legs, for that matter. Or even your back.
The shoes you’re wearing when you go for a fun are extremely important. It’s not just a case of “not going barefoot”. The best running shoes are comfortable and have the right amount of “bounce” to make sure you don’t hurt your feet.
If you don’t want to invest in new shoes just yet, consider getting some padding you can place directly underneath your feet.
2. Reduce The Amount Of Wires
It’s 2016, so most of us are going running while listening to music on our headphones or earphones. Okay, so people have been doing that since the late seventies.
But in 2016, we don’t need that wire connecting your phones to your music player. That wire just bounces around as you run and gets in the way of your arms.
You can look into Bluetooth technology if you want to free yourself of pesky wires. Outlets like Jaybird Sport can help you find what you’re looking for.
3. Sleep More
One of the leading reasons for discomfort during running is that your body isn’t properly prepared. Often, it’s because you didn’t do your warmup routines correctly (at at all).
Other times, it’s because you’re pushing yourself a bit too hard. But you may be surprised at just how often the discomfort is caused by a lack of rest.
“Exercising more” shouldn’t translate into “sleeping less”. Your body needs time to prepare and time to recover. Give it plenty of water and plenty of rest. Make sure you know how your exercise affects your sleep.
4. Try Out More Scenic Routes
Maybe you just need to relax a bit more? If you’re feeling stressed, then exercise should be helping. But if you’re still feeling stressed, then maybe you need a change of environment.
Running around in busy urban areas isn’t going to do you any favors. And sticking to your gym might also be keeping the pressure on.
Explore your town and see if there are any “hidden” routes. Forgotten paths through forests, rarely-explored fields of flowers – anything that feels more scenic. Your running routine will feel calmer and more adventurous.
