As most of my regular readers are aware, I prefer to run with a group. My runs have always been as much about socializing as they are running and fitness. Spending time with running friends is what often gets me out of bed on hot or rainy mornings. Over the last 18 months, much has changed and I have found myself on more solo runs than ever before. I have learned not to dread them as much. How does one make solo running less sucky? Here are 8 ways to help make running solo more enjoyable.
How to Make solo running more fun
While I still prefer running with a friend or with my Moms Run This Town Group, I have learned to make it through solo runs. I don’t dread them as much as I have found a few ways to entertain myself. I discovered solo runs can also be beneficial as I have had some great ideas while out alone on a run.
Update your playlist
I have a few different Spotify playlists that I am constantly updating. My favorite one has all of my favorite music from the last 3 years of Peloton classes. You can save your favorite songs to your Spotify playlist right from the bike screen. Genius! Find it here to download: my Spotify running and workout playlist
Guided runs with Peloton
If you like hearing someone else talk to you, a guided run on the Peloton outdoor app is the way to roll. There are runs of all different lengths and music types. The app is a great deal right now check it out.
Podcasts or Audio Books
A good audio book or podcast can keep you entertained for the long run. Audible offers a free trial for Amazon prime members.
Running for time instead of distance
Setting out to hit a time goal instead of a distance goal can help with motivation on a hot summer day.
Form Drills/Intervals
Working on your run form is so much easier on a solo run as you don’t have to worry about holding anyone else back. Trying out some interval runs while running alone first is a great way to test them out.
Explore a new route
Checking out a new route can make solo running more entertaining. Plan to run to your favorite coffee spot. Having a reward at the end is always motivating.
Plan a photo session
Bring along your phone and your tripod to help capture fun new photos. It never hurts to have a few stacked up for IG just in case.
take on a strava challenge
Every month there are fun new challenges on Strava. Go the distance or tackle some elevation for a virtual badge. Secure your “local legend” status by running the same route more than anyone else in your neighborhood. (See Best features of the Strava App).
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Who knows! You may even end up enjoying running alone.
Thanks for helping to make the Runners’ Roundup a huge success by visiting all of the hosts: Laura, Me, Debbie, Jen, Lisa
Great tips! For me personally, nothing much has changed, as I enjoy running alone.
However, for those that love their running tribe, it must be so hard right now. Seeing your solo pictures in the weekly round-up was rather unusual. Let’s hope it will change soon!
It is unusual for me! I can’t wait to get back to my crew
These are great ways to get through those solo runs! Since I always run alone things aren’t any different for me right now, but I know many runners are struggling big time wit adjusting to running by themselves!
It has definitely been a huge adjustment. I really miss the social aspect of running
Not always a solo runner, but often. Just due to circumstances. I actually really do enjoy running in a group, but either our schedules don’t mesh, or there’s time restraints, or evening running just doesn’t work for me.
For now, to me, running from my home feels like the right thing to do. Which does make things really boring! But I’ve actually been in this situation before. I took on the challenge of nose breathing because a time without races seemed like a good time — but boy, it’s a much bigger challenge than I thought it would be! Hopefully the benefits that are touted will appear sometime soon.
It definitely does feel like running by my house is the right thing to do as well. It can be boring and the hills are killing my momemtum. Changing your breathing style is always challenging. Look forward to hearing more about how it’s going
You know I love and prefer my solo runs. But I can see how it would be aa big adjustment when you’re used to running with a large group!
A huge adjustment for me. I can’t seem to find my groove on most runs. I am envious of your beautiful trails. Ours are way too crowded still
Great tips. I know it’s been hard for you, but you’ve done very well getting out there. As you know, I’m very much a solo runner so nothing much has changed. I always listen to audiobooks when I run. I’ve been a member of Audible for a long time and I have an embarrassing number of books. I guess I can think of them as miles run!
That is a great way to pass the time and a nice way to think of all the miles you have run.
I usually run alone since I’ll hit the treadmill before work and watch Netflix. Obviously that’s not happening since I’m working from home and can go outside. I’ve been listening to podcasts or running with my dog. To me this isn’t a huge change but I know a lot of people are struggling so great tips!
It is an adjustment for all of us. Glad to hear your runs are not impacted too much
As you know, my routine hasn’t been affected much. Barb & I still meet up a couple times each week, but are careful to be well-distanced from each other. We do have less traffic, so that’s been a good thing! What I miss are all the races that have been cancelled or put on hold. A first world prob, but still a big change in Routine for myself. I appreciate our “walks & talks” 🙂
yes a big change indeed. I am envious of your runs with barb 🙂
I love your title! I am fortunate to live with my running partner so I still do most of my runs with him. I am definitely missing running with my running club every Tuesday night and Sunday morning. I do like the idea of mixing up the routes. I think we tend to get into a rut. It’s nice to check out new paths. I hope you can get back to running with your friends soon!
I am a little envious that your husband runs with you!
I am by nature an introvert. But when it comes to running, I’m super social and my extroverted side comes out. Which makes this quarantine and solo running thing straight up suck. Luckily I have my doggos to keep me company but it’s still rough.
It does make it so much harder doesn’t it!?
I’ve always loved your troop of girls, beautiful and colourful outfits, brilliant poses and gorgeous happy smiles. You’ve done so well to adapt. Its not easy especially when those runs are times to catch up and work through issues and dramas. It’s not just about the running, is it…sigh… Virtual races is something I’m doing now. Hadn’t thought about chatting on the phone but that’s a really good idea!
You are right-it’s not only about the running. Yes try the phone calls it helps too
Before all of this I spent a lot of time running solo, especially when I was marathon training, but I do miss my running group as I just got back from maternity leave and was looking forward to our Saturdays together. I will definitely say that listening to audiobooks has been really helpful for me, as well as focusing on my time outside vs. distance. I’m just grateful that I can run outside in any form!
Yes I am grateful to be outside as well. The spring weather is definitely helping!
So I am ok with running solo, and even walking solo (although I do play Pokemon Go on my walks now to help pass time), but I will admit that I started listening to “My Dad Wrote A Porno” early last year. This was a mistake for my runs. I started laughing so hard I almost fell off the curb. I had to switch to “Dirty John,” which was far more serious.
OH my I heard about that I have to check it out. Dirty John was so good! Have you watched it?
I actually usually run on my own so getting to run with others is actually a treat. I love the idea of phone calling while running. Sounds like a fun way to chat and run.
Phone calling definitely helps!
These are really great tips. I’ve done a few runs for time vs distance and I actually enjoy them much more. The Peloton tread classes are always great too.
The Peloton running classes have been a huge help to me this week
I typically run solo, so I have been looking forward to the time alone…especially since my house is never empty with kids always at home. I do miss my friends from the gym!!
Well yes, there is the much needed alone time!
Hi Deborah! These are really great tips. In times of COVID-19. What is the best workout to do at home solo? Thanks a lot!
I have a bunch of workout routines listed here on my site. Check out the tab workouts thanks
I am a solo runner so really nothing has changed for me. However, I do know it is a big adjustment for many people that are used to running with a group. Thank you for liking up with us!
Definitely a huge change!
I’ve heard great things about the peloton guided runs from friends… been meaning to try them but really enjoying getting some good audiobook listening on my runs these days. It’s been a saving grace of running solo for me.
Running solo is so hard isn’t it?! The Peloton app has to be downloaded by April 30th to take advantage of the free 90 days.
These are great tips, Deborah!
I like the Strava challenges too, I find them very motivating.
Another thing that motivates me is my virtual Garmin coach. I’m following a 10k training program and it’s amazing how easy the solo miles come together.
I have not tried the Garmin coaching yet. I know it’s worked really well for you maybe I should
As you know I usually run alone. Sometimes I listen to podcasts but most of the time I am just alone with my thoughts. These days I enjoy the balance of stroller runs and solo runs. I appreciate the solo runs since i don’t need to worry about anyone else, but I also like the stroller runs to just relax and not worry about pace, and also run a little later in the morning,
I imagine the stroller runs take more prep and thought and catering to Grayson. It is nice to be in your own thoughts sometimes too
I definitely prefer the company of other runners. But there are times when you can’t.
It can get boring. I love all your suggestions.
I’m always looking for new scenery. Podcasts and Peleton also help greatly.
It can get boring for sure. I like the extra push I get from a running friend to do a surge or go the extra mile
I really should do more runs based on time vs. distance. Honestly, it’s not something I ever think of doing! I’d probably still cheat, a little, and round-up the distance when the allotted time ended LOL
I bet you would! That’s ok just a fun way to mix things up never hurts. I used to be much more cognizant on finishing on an even number but thissummer I am just trying to get it done without melting
I’ve always loved solo runs. It’s my time to listen to podcasts, or occasionally music. But I also don’t mind running without my headphones. Every once in a while my husband runs with me and I’m surprised at how fast the time passes- so I can see why people love running in a group.
The time and the miles absolutely pass faster when you are chatting
Very good tips here. I am more of a walker but agree with the philosophy you share.
thanks and they can apply to walking as well
I love listening to my books while I workout! For me is me time to the finest
yes it is time for you to enjoy what you like
So many great tips, I wish I could just get into running, it was just never my thing. I can do walking but I know it just does not rav the cardio as well.
that’s okay walking is a great form of exercise too. Whatever gets you out there!
Great advice! Setting a time goal really can help especially when it’s hot and you might be running slower. As always, great advice!!
Summer running has a lot of extra challenges for sure
Running alone is HARD! I love these tips to make it a little more fun! Definitely updating my playlist ASAP!
Great glad I gave you a few ideas!
Love the peloton guided runs!
-Vidhi
http://www.coffeevschai.com
they are great!
All wonderful ideas. I really don’t mind solo running. I’ll change up my route if need be, but that’s generally enough to keep my motivation up.
It helps to find what works for you. I have come not to dread solo running as much
I usually run alone and actually I do enjoy it. I usually listen to a book but sometimes I’ll switch to music or just listen to my thoughts. I’ve never really understood the Local Legend thing though I get the notifications from time to time.
the local legend just means that you have run in that exact segment more than anyone else. It is fun to get!