Running News Daily

Run Commutes Aren’t Just for Getting to Work

If you’re looking for ways to stay motivated during your Streak, try using the daily jog as transport. 

The second half of the Run Streak is when most of us start to crave a rest day or feel a slump in motivation. It’s also the time that I dip into what has been a streak-saving secret: run commuting.

After all, running was transport way before it was sport, and the idea of bookending your work day with runs to and from the office isn’t a new one—especially during the summer Streak when we’ve got more daylight and try to avoid the hottest hours of the day. (Even if you work from home, you can still jog a “fake” commute like ultrarunner Mike Wardian does each morning when he’s trying to get in extra mileage.) 

Personally, the majority of my run commuting isn’t from home to office and back again. Rather, it’s for heading to other destinations that I would have otherwise hopped in a car. I can’t help but mention that at a time when gas prices have soared over 5 bucks (6 in some areas!) per gallon. It may not save you a significant amount at the tank, but I feel like it counts double when the mileage that would have been going on your car is going in your training log instead. 

If you’re dragging a bit and need something new in your Streak, or just need to squeeze in a quick mile with a task you’ve already got on your schedule, I’ve got a few suggestions. I’ve done them all myself, and each has either added a little convenience or excitement to my Streak. My challenge to you is to try one of these during the final days of yours: 

Run to a local coffee shop for your morning coffee.

Jog to meet a friend you haven’t seen in a while.

Get an errand out of the way. (I run to get my groceries and count carrying them home as my weight training.)

Experiment with a run commute to work

End a hot run with ice cream for the walk home. 

Save the delivery fee on something small you’ve Uber Eats’d (These apps offer more than just food orders now.)

Pick up birthday or holiday cards for friends and family. 

A Few Tips

If you have a watch that offers built-in payment methods, get it set up before you head out so you can leave your wallet at home.

Remember that you don’t have to run the whole way. Maybe you’ll ask a friend for a lift home, carpool with a coworker, or use public transport for a portion of your trip.

Plan your route ahead of time. Use turn-by-turn GPS navigation on your phone’s app or watch as back up. 

If you’re commuting during busy hours, incorporate parks into your route to avoid busier roads and sidewalks.

Use hear-through mode on your headphones, or just leave them at home. 

Seal your cash or cards in a Ziplock baggy to keep them from getting sweaty.

Short, easy jogs during cooler hours won’t leave you stinky or drenched.

Always give yourself about 10 more minutes than you think you’ll need. 

(06/19/2022) Views: 1,006 ⚡AMP