Tips To Distract You While Running

Running is a funny concept for me because I try to focus on anything else but running. That’s the key that keeps me going. Some of my non-negotiables are the following:

• MUSIC – this might be a universal truth
• A fun and engaging location – keeps things interesting
• A piece of gum – my most unique running quirk 

Music

Running with music is the majority of people. It honestly catches me off guard when I see someone running with no headphones on. However, this is not the tip I want to provide. In the past year I’ve discovered tempo running. This entails running to a playlist that beats matches the pace at which you run at. This is good for consistent running which can improve your distance. It also reintroduces you to songs you forgot about 🙂

Where You Run Matters

I was always an active kid growing up. I was involved in sports and extracurriculars that kept me active. And if there was a lull in my schedule, my parents and friends kept me busy. That is something I am really grateful for. Transitioning to college came with many life adjustments and finding ways to stay active was one of those. Once I discovered some of Eugene’s nooks, being active became easier. My freshman year of college I discovered one of my favorite neighborhoods to run in. The houses reminded me of the neighborhoods from home and I found myself going there when I was sad or lonely, and it never failed to make me feel better. 

Gum? Gum!

This is my most non-typical tip. I’ve been finding myself popping a piece of Extra Spearmint gum everytime I go for a run for years now. I’m not sure if it’s the taste I’m drawn to or the chewing itself, but whatever it is, I need it. For the past two half marathons I’ve completed, I’ve asked my family and friends to bring me a new piece of Extra Spearmint gum at checkpoints. I’ve concluded I could not have run that far without it. 

Your Turn

Running is a very vulnerable and personal experience. Everyone has their own quirks and running rituals. But if mine could help one person, I’d consider that a win.