10 Boredom Busting Tips for Runners

Whether you are a new runner or a seasoned pro, it’s easy to get bored if you don’t switch up your routine frequently. If you find that you are repeatedly hitting the snooze button or that you’d rather do just about anything except exercise, we have a few suggestions to help you. 

Here are 10 boredom busting tips for runners: 

Try HIIT workouts on your treadmill. Ditching “flat road” runs in favor of more dynamic interval routines makes your the time go by faster when you have to train indoors. Check out these treadmill HIIT workout ideas from Self Magazine.

Explore new routes. Route art is a growing trend where you can design, then map and run your own unique route.

Image Source: MapMyRun

Run errands (pun most definitely intended). The next time you need to borrow a book from the library or mail a letter, we suggest leaving the car at home. You can even “run” out to get a few groceries now and then. Just remember to bring a backpack and try not to get items that are too bulky or heavy. Otherwise, you might have to cut your run short and take an Uber home.

Try out some fun running apps. For example, Zombies, Run! lets you pretend you’re being chased by zombies in an alternative reality. How’s that for switching things up a bit?!

Try a challenge or “streak”. Runner’s World often hosts streaks that you can participate in. According to their website, “to be considered part of the #RWRunStreak, all you need to do is run at least a mile day”.

Sign up for a race. There is nothing like registering for a race to get you hyper-focused on training again. The best part is that there are so many different types to choose from. Consider a mud run, an obstacle race or charity run-a-thon. Bonus: get your friends and family to join as well - so you can keep each other accountable.

Change your schedule. If you typically run after work, try working out in the mornings instead. You can even switch up your running days, being sure to evenly space out your rest days, if you aren’t already doing so.

Take a week off. Let’s face it, sometimes taking a little break will help you realize how much you miss lacing up your running shoes and hitting the pavement. Just be sure to incorporate some other activities like hiking, swimming or cycling during your running hiatus.

Get new listening material. There’s a very good chance that injecting some new songs or possibly even a new genre of music (Summer 00’s Hits, anyone?) can help to make your runs more fun. If you’re tired of music altogether, you can also consider listening to podcasts while running for entertainment or educational purposes, or both. Here are a few of our faves.

Invest in new workout clothes. Yep, cute workout wear can actually boost your performance. In addition to moisture-wicking shirts and shorts, wearing gear like compression socks can help you to avoid injuries while running without sacrificing style. Check out our cool designs here.

Have another idea to add to our list of boredom busting tips for runners? Leave a comment below or share it on Facebook and Instagram using #crazycompression.