We are so excited that you have made up your mind and motivated yourself to get off the couch and go for a jog!\u00a0 Running outside can be a great way to clear your mind, enjoy a beautiful day, and (of course) stay fit and healthy.\u00a0 But have you ever set out on your run and realized you were unprepared or should have done \u201cthis\u201d before you left?\u00a0 We\u2019ve compiled 5 things that you MUST do in order to have a successful and enjoyable run outdoors!<\/p>\n
1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>Use the Restroom<\/b><\/p>\n
You do not want to be 10 minutes into your run and realize you need to go to the bathroom\u2026NOW.\u00a0 Running tends to get your bowels moving, so be proactive and use the bathroom before you go for a jog.\u00a0 If you don\u2019t, you might be making a pit stop behind a tree or knocking on a neighbor\u2019s door!\u00a0 Avoid an embarrassing encounter and use the restroom before you run!<\/p>\n
2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>Actually Tie Your Shoes<\/b><\/p>\n
Okay, sometimes to save time or energy, you may slip into your already-tied-from-last-workout shoes and hit the road running.\u00a0 The problem is, if you can slip into these shoes, they are not tied tight enough to support your foot and ankle while you run.\u00a0 Bend over or sit down and actually take the time to tie your shoes properly.\u00a0 This will help prevent injury and give you the best support and stabilization while you run.\u00a0This is even more important if you\u2019re training in the\u00a0best track spikes for sprinting<\/span><\/span><\/a> or high-performance footwear requiring a snug fit.<\/span> If they aren\u2019t tied and snug, they aren\u2019t going to do their job.<\/span><\/p>\n 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>Set Your Watch<\/b><\/p>\n Switch out your Michael Kors for a fun sports watch <\/a>and use the functions to help you track your run.\u00a0 Use the timer to record how long you run, and the split time function if you are running the same path several times and want to see how fast you do a single lap. \u00a0Also, take advantage of the glow feature when you jog at dusk and struggle to see your watch face.<\/p>\n 4.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>Secure Your Keys<\/b><\/p>\n Whether you step off your front porch and run the neighborhood, or drive to a local trail, you are probably going to have a key that you need to keep safe while you run.\u00a0 If you feel safe leaving your key hidden or disguised, try using a fake rock that fits your key and is camouflaged, or a magnetic key holder that hides under your car tires.\u00a0 If you’re more comfortable keeping your keys on you, try double knotting your shoes and tying the key into the knot.\u00a0 You can also look into purchasing running shorts that have small zipper pockets designed specifically for keys or this awesome SPIbelt<\/a>.\u00a0 All of these ideas will keep you from locking yourself out of your car or house!<\/p>\n 5.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>Secure your Phone\/iPod<\/b><\/p>\n Running with music can be a wonderful way to pass the time and enjoy some motivational jams. Phones can also serve as a safety measure in case of an emergency.\u00a0 But phones and iPods can be frustrating if they slip or get sweaty from holding them.\u00a0 Invest in an arm band that holds your phone or music player <\/a>and straps to your arm so you can run with your hands free, while also protecting your technology.<\/p>\n 6.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>Prepare for the Weather<\/b><\/p>\n Unlike training on a treadmill, the elements are definitely a factor when you exercise outside.\u00a0 Wind, rain, sun, or snow can all affect the quality of your run, and being unprepared can lead to a miserable workout!\u00a0 Think about your outfit and what you will need in order to be comfortable.\u00a0 Some ideas (depending on your weather) include ball caps, gloves, sunglasses<\/a>, sunblock, visors, ear warmers, headbands, sweatshirts, long spandex, sleeveless tanks, and rain jackets.\u00a0 Remember that it\u2019s better to be over-prepared and enjoy your run than under-prepared and miserable!\u00a0 Also, think about what you will want once you start sweating.\u00a0 If the weather is chilly, but you will not want to wear or carry your sweatshirt around after the first few minutes, tough it out for the first part of your run so you will be comfortable for the majority of your workout.<\/p>\n 7.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/b>HYDRATE<\/b><\/p>\n Setting out for a run without properly hydrating can instantly cause problems.\u00a0 Without proper hydration, your muscles will feel more fatigued and tired, you might start to feel light-headed or dizzy, and you will have a slower recovery time.\u00a0 Prepare your body for exercise, and feel your best by drinking water before, during (if possible)<\/a>, and after your run.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n