And with the warm weather comes one of the many things I love to do: run outside. This morning was my first run outdoors in 2014. Don't worry though, the treadmill is still my primary method of cardio, however, there is nothing better than feeling the cool wind on your face as you push your body to the limit.
One of the reasons I find running outside so exhilarating is because nature has a way to make your run more challenging. For example:
- THE GROUND: A treadmill is soft on your feet. The cushion of the black belt is like running on a cloud compared to the cold, hard cement sidewalk or rugged trails at the park. It takes more force and effort to run outside.
- THE WIND: I was fortunate this morning that there was only a light breeze. This was just enough to cool me down as I began to sweat. Unfortunately, the wind doesn't always cooperate like it did this morning which brings me to my next point...
- YOUR LUNGS: Everyone up in the north, especially after this past winter, knows how much more difficult it is to breathe in frigid temperatures and through high gusts of wind. I vividly remember just walking across the street with a co-worker and each gust of wind took my breath away... literally! When I tried to speak, the wind was so strong it knocked the words right out of my mouth. Imagine trying to run like that!
- NATURE'S NEMESIS: Allergies. Enough said...
One of the benefits of running on a treadmill is that, based on your speed and time, the treadmill will track your distance for you. When running outside, that can be a little trickier. There are many apps out for your smartphones that track your run. My current favorite, Map my Run. This app not only tracks my distance, but also my pace! There are so many other apps out now that do the same and more! Check out the below link to find the best running apps to enhance your run and keep you on track with your goals!
http://appscout.pcmag.com/mobile-apps/311148-top-5-apps-for-runners
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