Jogging or running is a great way to stay fit and free the mind. We all know this, but for many … the repetitiveness can be a barrier that slowly demotivates, causing us to abandon those running shoes on the rack. To avoid that fate, try adding goals to give running that fresh and exciting sense of purpose.
Train for a race
This is the first and easiest way to build up motivation. Find a challenging local charity run that you would like to tackle, sign up and spend the next few weeks or months training to prepare. Once your money is spent, there’ll be no turning back. Aim for a run that places you at least slightly outside your comfort zone to increase your incentive for preparation. If five kilometres is your limit so far, aim for a 10k.
Listen to new music
Broaden the sensory palette by making jogging as much of an exciting listening experience as it is physical experience. Instead of listening to the same playlist, try listening to a brand new artist every time, using your jogging time to discover new music. Check out the latest top running headphone models so that you can get the best sound quality whilst also not having to continuously replace the earphones back in your ears.
Train with a partner
Another drawback of jogging can be the loneliness. Running with a buddy can provide company, and possibly inspire some friendly competition. Find a family member or a friend and ask them if they’d be up for running with you. You can both agree on a slow comfortable pace for distance or see who can run the furthest in a set time, or get home the fastest. Apps may allow you to compete with your own stats, but nothing quite lives up to competing with someone else in the flesh.
Run for sport
Running as part of a sport is a fun way to log a ton of steps, while having a lot of fun. Consider even a simple tool and game such as a Frisbee to release your inner kid. Frisbees can be thrown and chased making them particularly exciting (although you may want to find an open area such as a park first). You could also log some serious distance playing soccer, basketball, lacrosse or flag football.
Try an unusual route
Jogging the same route day in, day out can certainly lead to boredom. Choosing a new destination to run or simply taking a different route away form you house can spice things up a bit. Explore new places! If you’re used to urban routes, try a rural one. Alternatively, experiment with different elevations such as hills and different terrains such as grass – go off the beaten path, so to speak.
You can also use technology to find recommended jogging routes in your area. Take in the sounds and sights and make jogging time an adventure rather than a chore.
