This post doesn’t need much introduction.
Below, you’ll find bits of colloquial running advice I’ve tested over the years and found to hold true. Use as needed, at your discretion, to make your runs more fun.
Enjoy!
Keep Moving
Get up and walk around every 20 minutes or so on big days, especially early in a training program or after a hard run. It’s essential to keep blood flowing, which delivers nutrients to your tired muscles. Stagnation after a big run will cause inflammation and lactic acid to accumulate in areas that were already sore, making for a miserable morning the next day.
They’re Playing My Song!
Possibly the silliest tip on this list, but: if you have a running playlist, add new songs to the beginning instead of the end… One of those realizations that make you go: “huh, why didn’t I think of that sooner?”
Gum Soles
I’m a big fan of chewing gum during runs. It keeps my mouth from drying out, relieves tension in my face, gives me something else to focus on, and helps me keep tempo.
Hole-y Socks!
Wear a pair of old socks on your hands (or even over gloves) when it’s cold out. Not only will they keep you warm – they’re easy to wash, and you won’t feel guilty for wiping your nose on ’em.
Risky Business
Go twice before you go! Once before you dress, and again before you head out. I’ve ruined a couple of excellent runs with a mid-mile trip to the restroom – and that’s when I’m lucky enough to find one nearby. But most of the time, it either means the run is over, or I’m sprinting the last half-mile home…
Keeper of the Keys
Hate carrying keys? Try tying them into your shoe. Pull the laces out of the top two holes, cross them through the keyring, relace, and tuck the keys between the tongue and laces. Solid as a rock.
Bet on the Belt
Chances are, you need more than just keys on the run. Personally, I need my phone, Airpods, keys, a little cash, a mask… I carry it all in a stretchy, low-profile runner’s belt. They come in as many shapes, sizes, and types as do runners, and I cannot recommend them enough.
I prefer the FlipBelt, but consider all your options.
Keep Climbing
I despise the treadmill. Did you know it was initially contrived as a torture device? One that’s stood the test of time, in my opinion. But if a treadmill is your only option, and you don’t mind it: be careful how you set the incline. Perfectly-level roads don’t exist. So if you’re training for a race, calculate a gradient to match the course average.
Change Spares
I’m rotating through 2-3 different pairs of running shoes at any given time. Not only does this help prevent injury – it makes for more enjoyable runs. Differing levels of support, cushion, and tread create different running experiences. I have a pair of waterproof, high-tread trail shoes, a pair of heavily-cushioned shoes for sore days, and my ultra-light racing shoes. Between the three, I’m ready for anything.
First Things First
If you’re racing, pin your number on your shirt before putting it on. I’ve seen crooked numbers, even upside-down numbers… And you don’t want to stick yourself right before a race. There’s nothing quite as demoralizing as self-inflicted injury at the very start of a personal challenge.
No New Friends
No new clothes on race day! And if you’re considering wearing those new shoes for the next race? How did you even make it this far?
When it comes to gear – especially gear you’re already comfortable with – honor that time-honored maxim: if it ain’t broke – don’t fix it!
