Ok, lets not get carried away here!!! I laugh a little as I write this post because I'm the furthest thing from a runner and here I am giving out tips. Here's the honest truth, I've always hated to run but after all these years I've finally found out a few things that have worked to get my butt out the door and hitting the pavement. So if you're like me and absolutely HATE to run these might be a little helpful.
Tip 1. WATER WATER WATER! I can not even stress enough how much of a difference this has made. You're probably over there thinking duh, that's a no brainer but hey...i'm new at this! I'm not some water professional and I'm sure there are countless of statistics I can find on the internet, but I can tell you from personal experience that staying hydrated through the day not only motivates me to be healthy but it helps my runs go a little smoother. After a while, water can get a little boring and just thinking of taking another gulp makes me want to drop kick my water bottle BUT there is hope for us all! Water flavor drops are blessings from above!!! My favorites are Dasani "Coconut" and Minute Maid "Mango Tropical" but there are so many kinds water will never be boring again. The best part?? They're 0 calories!!! Hi! sign me up for the rest of forever. I could drink water for days .. and I have thanks to these.
Tip 2. It probably goes with out saying but having a good playlist can make all the difference. When my jam Timber pops up on my workout playlist I lose it. It takes everything in me not to break out into a dance party in the middle of the road, and it's been a close call a couple of times. Pick something upbeat and easy to run to so you keep a good pace. No one wants to run to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, sorry but no leave them out of this playlist.
Tip 3. Enjoy the beauty that surrounds you! I always miss out on a lot when I'm too focused on my body and how my legs are crumbling beneath me. I came across this stop sign on my run last week and it made my entire day and the whole run was worth it. When you're appreciating your surroundings and focusing less on your body, I think you'll find you can go a lot further with out even realizing how far you've actually gone!
Tip 4. Last but not least find a running buddy... There's just something so comforting about having someone suffer right beside you. It's a lot easier to walk, take short cuts, as well as quit entirely when you only have yourself to lean on. My dad has been joining me on my runs lately and I actually look forward to our time together. The only time we aren't running is when i'm trying to not wet my pants from laughing so hard. He is a good distraction as well as an amazing motivator to help me push through the wall and keep on going!






