Bad Angel Rule #96
Master the “Easy Run.”
Easy runs are part of every training program, and they are extremely important. But, when you are in the throes of training, do you know how to take it easy? Here’s a few tips that help me relax on a run:
- Create a playlist of easy songs. Include some Lionel Richie, Coldplay, Barenaked Ladies and Sade. Throw in some rock ballads, but only if they don’t bring up residual feelings of rage from a high school break-up. Anger can be counterproductive to the easy run.
- Run in the dark. If you are like me, I tend to run faster when people can see me. At night, I can run like a turtle and not feel self-conscious.
- Run during rush hour. The natural stops and starts that happen on the road are tenfold when it’s rush hour. Lots more cars, lots more stops, means more rest for your legs.
- Run with a friend whose pace is slower than yours. Talk a lot.
It’s OK to take it easy sometimes, even if you have to force yourself. – Amie
