Make the Miles Fly By: 4 Ways to Keep Your Mind Busy On Long Runs
Some days, you might feel like you can run forever with the right soundtrack: the perfect mix of tempos, the right balance of instrumental and lyrical songs, and the rhythmic sound of your wide toe running shoes like a metronome against the pavement. On other days, however, you might not be in the mood for music.
When you’re a seasoned distance runner, you know that variety is the key to maintaining your mental endurance on long runs. If you want a break from your favorite running playlist but still need a little motivation on your long runs, here are four other strategies for keeping your mind busy as you hit your stride.
Start with the Right Gear
Feeling physically comfortable while you run has a huge impact on your mental endurance. Even if you barely notice that your shorts are uncomfortable or that your shoes feel just a little too narrow on mile one, you’ll certainly feel it on mile ten.
From wearing breathable, sweat-wicking layers to choosing comfortable men’s or womens wide athletic shoes, the right gear can make all the difference once you reach the back half of your run. When you feel comfortable and confident, you can run with a clear mind and a positive attitude, no matter what you’re listening to.
Audiobooks are a fantastic option for distance runners, whether you catch up on your favorite fiction series or finally get around to reading that self-improvement book everyone has been raving about.
Be sure to download your audiobook ahead of time and charge your device to avoid being left on a cliffhanger halfway through your run. Plus, the anticipation of finding out what happens next can help you stay motivated and encourage you to keep up with your training schedule.
Phone a Friend
Believe it or not, talking while running is actually a fantastic way to improve your training. Being able to hold a conversation is a good indicator that you’re sticking to a manageable pace and not running too fast, which is particularly important when running long distances.
Schedule a catch-up call with a few long-distance friends or family members ahead of your next run. You might find that swapping stories, sharing life updates, and reminiscing helps the miles fly by. If you’re catching up with a fellow runner, you can even become virtual running buddies by both running and talking on the phone at the same time.
Pick a Few Podcasts
If you love the idea of chatting while you run but find it easier to focus on listening when you’re pumping out the miles, you might love running with a great podcast. With countless subjects, styles, and genres to choose from, the wide variety of podcasts offers something for everyone.
Catch up on current events, learn about a fascinating subject, or listen to your favorite funny host banter with celebrity guests. Some podcast streaming platforms even offer guided running meditations, so you can incorporate elements of mindfulness into your training routine.
With these four strategies for keeping your mind busy while running without music, you can make the most of every run. That way, when you’re ready to rock out and run with your favorite tunes, it’s even more satisfying.
About Topo Athletic
Topo Athletic has one mission: to keep you moving with comfortable running shoes you can count on mile after mile. Experience the brand’s roomy toe box, secure midfoot and heel, and low heel to toe drop. Every pair of Topo Athletic shoes embodies a commitment to helping you stay active and stride for more. Their signature wide toe box design allows your toes to splay in their natural position for optimal comfort and performance. Whether you’re running on the road, pumping out miles on the trail, or kicking it around town, they have the women’s and mens wide shoes you need to promote good foot health, better posture, and more comfortable movement. Embrace the journey and explore the extraordinary with the Topo Difference.
Start your run on the right foot with shoes from https://www.topoathletic.com/
