So, runners. We tend to be TYPE A people. Always chasing after those PRs, that BQ. Trying to be your best. Be the fastest. Top the Strava leaderboards. Chasing the next challenge. And those goals are amazing to have. Sometimes, I do feel like I’ve done it all. 100 miler? Check. Sub 4 marathon? Check. Sub 3:50 marathon?? Check check check. BQ? (Getting there. Still a few minutes off. So sue me. I’m young and have time.)
But…have you ever thought that there was SO MUCH more to running? So much more than doing every race, than posting every Instastory with some brag worthy post about how you got another medal on #medalMonday. If I can be honest, my medals (I have too many of them) from 10 years of marathon running are all collecting dust in a massive box. My ultrarunning buckles too are in the drawer as we speak. And since the last time I’ve moved, I haven’t taken the time to put anything back up. But really, what or who would I be putting them up for? Probably to post something on social media about how many medals or 100 mile buckles I have. Lately, I’ve taken a step back from constant racing…and guess what?! I’m really enjoying it. I am doing races that I love, and that I really want to do. I am really loving where I’m at with my running right now. Anyway, so if you are that runner that is a chronic road racer. And perhaps. Craving some adventure? Then this may be the post just for ya…
Here are some ways you can feed that wild side and start really revving up…and LOVING your running again.
–Take a RUN on the wild side, literally. I’ve been getting back into running through the trees and the trails. And after stepping away from trails for a bit, I feel like I’m ready to get back off the beaten path. It is incredible what a little deep woods therapy can do. Don’t know where to start with trail running? Check out this post if you are beginner.
–Go out for a run with absolutely NO DIRECTION, route wise, at all. Literally go run and make up a route on the fly. I cannot tell you how many awesome runs I’ve had where I’ve had no clue what my route was going to be that day. The other day actually I discovered some rolling hills in my ‘hood that were super hidden. And now I feel like Dora the Explorer or some ish.
–Sign up for a mountain race! I know that may sound a little outlandish if you are used to a humdrum 5k 10k in your neighborhood. But expand your horizons! It doesn’t have to be an ultramarathon race. Believe it or not they have 5k 10k mountain races as well! Soak in the amazing views. I signed up for a 25k in the mountains in September and hey, it’s West Texas mountains but still! Some uncharted territory. Can’t wait.
–Go nocturnal. I absolutely LOVE night races, especially because it is something different from the norm. Read my Fossil Valley race recap if you want some inspiration. This is especially great in the summer, when it’s just so blazing hot and you’re seeking some cooler air. A relay with friends could be even better.
What are some other ways to feed your wild (running) side?
thedancingrunner 
I feel this so much! I was super obsessed with chasing down goals until I broke my ankle and ruptured a ligament, leaving me out of action for a long time. Now when I run, I literally just run! I get outdoors, I do long runs with friends, I run in shitty weather and I run halfway across the city just to try out a new hipster food joint. Genuinely, being injured just made me grateful when I could run at all, so I’m now just up for spontaneity and saying yes more! Loved this post x
Saying yes to the spontaneity!! Love it! Glad you are back up and running!!
I just did a 100-mile trail relay in Louisiana called the Chicot Challenge. It was a fun way to engage in some teamwork on the trails, and when it wasn’t my turn to run, I enjoyed the food and camaraderie with other runners. My team didn’t outrun the sun, so we also caught some of that nocturnal running you mentioned. 🙂
Ooo I like the way that race sounds. I am going to look into it! Thanks!!
I am a newbie runner with only two years under my belt but absolutely love it. Thank you for the post. Will check out the night running
Absolutely! Night running can be a blast especially with friends!
I’m a Type B runner so enjoying the run is usually my goal rather than speed or distance. These are great suggestions! I have yet to try night running.
LOVE IT! As a type B I feel like you would love it nocturnal!
I agree – I am more energetic at night. Just have to find the right gear…