I was recently running with a group on some city streets and we got into a discussion about what to do when we come to red lights. Do you jog in place? Or do you take a short rest?
The whole discussion got me thinking about how it can be tempting to break up a run with lots of little stops along the way. First, it's a red light, then you stop to drink from a water fountain, then you have to go to the bathroom, then there's a cute dog who is begging for you to pet him…and so on. The excuses for stopping during a run are endless. But if you're trying to build up a continuous running habit or you're hoping to run continuously in an upcoming race, you really need to try to limit your stops.
With some pre-run planning, it is possible to eliminate many of the possible reasons why you'd need to pause while running. Here are some simple tips to try:
Avoid red lights. If you're not a fan of jogging in place, try to avoid running routes with traffic lights by sticking to parks, paths, or even non-busy backroads.
Check yourself before you go. This may seem like common sense, but ask yourself, Do I have to go to the bathroom? Are my running shoes tied properly? Am I wearing those annoying socks that I have to keep stopping to pull up every few minutes? A quick check before you start running can prevent stopping later.
Carry a water bottle. If you're running more than 30 minutes, it's helpful to carry a water bottle. Even if water fountains are available on your route, you'll only have to stop if you need to refill your bottle.
More:
- How to Increase Your Distance
- Can I Walk During My Runs?
- How to Avoid Side Stitches
- How to Avoid Bathroom Stops
I try to run in places where I won’t have to stop, like side streets with little traffic or running paths. I’ll do a long run in a place where I won’t ever have to stop. If I do stop, I’ll stop – not run in place – and just start running again.
I just avoid running near traffic. I’m trying to get healthy not breathe in massive amounts of pollutants from cars.
I will run in place. Stop and start again is kind of hard on my legs and respiratory system. Usually I run loops without any traffic stops.
I have a couple of fairly busy roads I have to cross near my house if I want to go any distance. I plan my routes so that I go along the busy roads for a block or so before continuing on the other side. That gives me plenty of time to cross without stopping or jogging in place.
Kitster,
I try to do the same thing. It usually works!