Varying trails and routes

It’s important to vary your jogging routes, to keep for getting bored, de-motivated and of course, to test your strength and stamina. For instance, many joggers will select a path and continuously stick to it each time they jog. After a while, you unconsciously begin to take to this path. You may convince yourself that you are trying to better your time or run a slightly greater distance each time; but the fact is you do it because it’s convenient and comfortable.

By running different routes, you can do two things: a) add variety to your routine, which in the long run (pun intended ;) is definitely guaranteed to keep you from getting bored and b) vary distances.

Jogging or running can be either short or long distanced. Short distances are usually 3-6 kms, and are generally run at a steady medium pace or fast pace.
Long distance jogging is usually between 6-20 kms and is done at a constant medium speed.

If you are jogging/running uphill or on an incline, the distances are of course, shorter.

When selecting a new route, ensure you are mindful of the following:

Your surroundings: You should ideally check out your new route prior to your first run there, to make sure it’s safe and well populated or not too isolated to get help if you need it.

The terrain: Make sure it’s not too hilly, pot-holed or difficult to run on. While good shoes will act as shock absorbers, you still do not want to jog on a very uneven road surface.

Traffic: If you are running on a busy street, avoid wearing headphones, be careful of traffic and always remember to jog against the traffic. Stay on the sidewalk where possible.

Company: Find a partner to try out new routes with. It makes jogging all that more fun and challenging.Just remember to get someone who can keep pace with you, or vice versa.

Happy new trails!