Well, here we are. The dog days of summer are finally behind us. Cooler, reasonable running weather is finally here, but you’re just not feeling it. You’re not injured or sick (here’s hoping) you’re just not jazzed about running right now.
Maybe your “A” race is behind you, your fitness goals have all been met, or your just satisfied with surviving summer running. Or perhaps your whole season imploded for whatever reason, and you and running just need a little break.
It happens, and it’s OK. If you’re finding it harder to get up and out the door these days, we got you. And we get it. Before you hang up the trainers for the season, check out these Five Ways to Make Running Fun this Fall.
Parlay that hard-won fitness
Taking a break doesn’t mean you have to go cold turkey. Running is the foundation of most every sport, and being in shape can make learning new activities even easier. In Charlotte, Mecklenburg County Park and Rec is just one of the places you can find adult sports leagues to join. Go on ahead and try that pickleball thing. At least you know you won’t be sucking wind.
Run just for fun
Taking a break from training and taking a break from running are two very different things. If the spirit, the weather, a friend, or whatever might move you… get out there for a run just for fun. Start your Strava if you must, or don’t. Just take it all in with no agenda at all. Try a loop close to home, if you think you may want to bail out. That’s fine, too.
Find a (new) Running Friend
If you’re a regular at the weeknight run club where everybody knows your name, that’s great… until it isn’t. Sure, there’s something comfortable about the same routes on the same nights, and running with the same old crew. It’s convenient, that’s for sure. Freshen things up a bit by jumping in with a new run group or club. The Charlotte area has plenty!
Challenge yourself
Never entered a race or run on the trails? Now’s a great time to explore those opportunities. How about a longer distance or a new personal best at a favorite event? Sounds like the perfect time to make some plans. How about adding some strength workouts or a day at the track? Hire a coach or a personal trainer to level up your training.
Remember why you fell in love with running in the first place
We’ve all got our reasons for running. Whether we challenged ourselves to a bucket list event or a fundraiser, or found running during the pandemic. Maybe it was just easier than driving to the gym, or a way to spend time with – or away from — people. For others running provides us with a time to think, or a way to forget. It keeps us fit, sane, happy, and motivated. It’s also hard, hot, sweaty, disappointing and frustrating sometimes, too. Remember why you love running. It’ll be here when you’re ready.