Beginning a new venture is always a thrill. As with relationships, we go through a “honeymoon phase” where everything is new, exciting, and captivating. When that phase ends, however, we begin to see more clearly the trials and flaws. We fall into the monotony of routine. Falling out of love, well. It happens.
We know, however, that the majority of marriages don’t end when the rose-tinted glasses come off. This is because these relationships take intentionality and hard work to not only last but to grow deeper and richer.
The same is true of any pursuit. Listen — I’ve been endurance running for years now. I’ll admit, there comes a time where runners get into a rut. Doing the same routines, seeing the same numbers, following the same paths — it can all get a little drab over time. For some, this is reason enough to quit. We lose our motivation to get out there because we just don’t feel stimulated in the same way. We’re lacking in satisfaction.
It’s only natural that this happens, but it doesn’t mean you have to deal with it. In fact, there are plenty of strategies that endurance runners can employ to banish boredom.
An Endurance Runner’s Guide to Keeping it Fresh
Practice Alternatives
It’s important for every runner to realize that they’re not locked into a single form of exercise. The benefits of cross-training for runners are well documented. Some of the biggest benefits are the balancing of muscle groups, injury prevention, and improvement of one’s cardiovascular fitness. If your mind immediately went to weight training, you aren’t wrong — but there are many alternatives that runners can explore.
While it might seem like delving into another form of exercise can hold you back, it will often improve upon aspects of your performance that running in and of itself doesn’t touch.
Swimming, pool running, and even cycling and ellipticals are great ways to mix up your routine. Especially as the summer approaches, pool workouts are that much more enticing. Not only that, but cross-training effectively prepares you for triathlons and other types of races!
Set a Clear Goal
To make progress, we need a clear goal. This is true in both the short-term and the long-term. For the endurance runner, a long-term goal may be a race coming up in the next few months. This will allow you to focus on improving specific metrics like time and form. Setting this goal for yourself keeps you working for something other than running for its own sake.
There’s also the matter of short-term goals. As you run, have a destination in mind. If you’re able, run to the store to do errands. If not, run to a specific landmark or destination. Break up your mileage into these “goal” destinations. It will keep you focused on smaller portions of your run versus feeling overwhelmed or bored with one long run.
Explore New Terrains
Part of the bored runner’s problem can be a refusal to explore. I think so many times we get caught up in numbers and the best times that we don’t feel comfortable trying new things that may impact our metrics. But really, if you find yourself getting bored, why not change things up? Buy yourself a pair of running shoes meant for pavement or meant for trails (whichever you don’t do right now) and try something new. Not only will it be a much-needed change of scenery, but you will find that you can work at different aspects of your form, like balance and stability.
Find Your Groove
Maybe your playlist is stale. While many runners enjoy listening to music while they run, understand that it isn’t your only option. If you love music, mix it up by creating a new playlist with songs that make you feel excited and motivated. If running to tunes is not your favorite, try listening to a podcast. Engage your brain while you run versus filling the silence with background music.
Similarly, you might feel more engaged and motivated if you’re running with someone. A partner can help you pass the time with conversation as well as motivate you to keep going when it gets tough.
In endurance running, you will inevitably grow bored over time. We don’t have to be resigned to rut and routine — these are just some of the ways runners can inject excitement back into their craft.
How do you break out of a rut — running or otherwise? Share your tips in the comments.