Running is boring, here’s how to fix it

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Lots of runners naturally enjoy the long run — I will never be one of them.  It’s not the exertion that I mind; that usually doesn’t become a factor until the final miles.  And it’s not pain either, as I’ve been lucky enough to avoid major, lasting injury thus far.  No, the block that’s holding me back from being the runner I can be is one that, at first, appears much less menacing: sheer and utter boredom.

Let’s face it: As much fun as race day is, as exhilarating and demanding as a speed workout might be, there are times when running is like watching grass grow (actually, this is quite an accurate descriptor of what one actually does on some long runs).  Especially if you’re an endurance runner, part of proper training demands that you spend hours putting in the mileage at speeds that aren’t exactly blistering, and how you manage the boredom can be a major factor in how far, and how often, you run.

I’ve come across several useful ways of making sure that when I quit, it’s because my body is tired, not because my mind is collecting cobwebs.  Here are the five tricks I’ve found most practical and effective for quelling long-run ennui.

Vary your pace. This one definitely has its place, since runners are often under strict instructions to run at, say, race pace plus 1 minute per mile.  But if you have some flexibility in your training routine, try changing the tempo during your long run — nobody ever said “long” has to mean “steady.”  Fartleks, intervals, and even more subtle changes to your pace can add variety to an otherwise monotonous long run.  Daniels’ Running Formula prescribes some particularly interesting distance workouts.

Listen to something. Nothing Earth-shattering here, since nearly everyone has tried listening to music while they run.  But I said “something,” not music.  I’ve found books on tape to be effective for passing the time, particularly when alternated with music every hour or so.

Time your breathing. A friend of mine taught me this distraction exercise from Chi Running that not only focuses the mind but serves a physiological purpose as well: Breathe in for two steps, out for three.  I’ve found it tremendously helpful not just for fighting off boredom, but for keeping my mind off the misery of the situation during tough tempo runs or those difficult miles at the end of a marathon.

Brainstorm. After a half an hour or so of running at a relaxed pace, many runners find that not only does their mood improve, but their creativity flows like no other time.  If you’ve never noticed this, maybe you just need to pay attention to it.  Next time you run long, try asking your brain for answers to problems that’ve been bugging you.

Meditate. No, you don’t have to be seated legs-crossed on a yoga mat to connect with your spiritual side.  For many, movement is the road to satori, and there’s nothing like the repetitiveness of running to lull you into a meditative trance, if you let it.  Just watch out for cars who aren’t so detached from the physical world.

Have any of your own tricks for avoiding running boredom?  As my training runs approach 30 miles in preparation for my first 50-miler, I have no doubt I’ll need them.