My Running Tips + Tricks

I am by no means an expert when it comes to running or working out in general, but I have been running a lot more recently and have found a few things that work well to build up my endurance. While I was up north, I ran about 2.5 miles everyday for a week and really noticed a difference that last Sunday. It was easier to run longer and I wasn't as out of breath! I took a week off and then continued to run almost everyday and can now run over 2 miles (when originally 1 mile was my maximum distance without stopping). That being said, here are a few tips and tricks for what I did to become a better runner!

+ Stretch!
If I could only tell you one thing to do to become a stronger runner, it would hands down be to stretch before and after you run. There's nothing worse than your mind telling your body to keep running but your ankles and legs are slowing you down and holding you back. I typically stretch out both my legs (like in the picture above!) and roll my ankles a few times to prepare.

+ Have a Workout Playlist
What's better than jamming to your favorite pump up song and forgetting you're running? I have about 12 songs on my playlist so that I can easily finish 2.5 miles with enough song options. Need a new playlist? Here's mine!

+ Use MapMyRun
I don't know about you, but I'm more motivated when I know how far and fast I'm going while I'm running. This app is seriously amazing and allows you to play your music through it so you don't have to keep switching apps. It also shows your route which comes in handy if you're running while traveling and don't know where you're going.

+ Mix Up Your Routes
I tend to get sick of seeing the same scenery pretty quickly (I'm also less inspired if I know exactly what I'm going to pass by) so I have a few different routes that I've mapped out. It's also beneficial to run routes with different hills and straight aways to really burn some calories!

+ Run With a Buddy
This doesn't work for everyone, but even forcing inviting a friend to bike along as you run provides a great distraction and makes your workout fly by. Even if you don't talk the entire time, it's a fabulous motive to keep running without stopping!

That's it for my tips! Remember, the only way you can become a better runner is by running a lot, so definitely try out these things and let me know how it goes for you!

All you runners out there: comment below your tips!

Written by Caroline of Citrus & Style