I love a good routine as it helps me plan my week with no surprises. Whilst it works well, it can get bloody boring sometimes!

Running can be exactly the same and I sometimes get so fed up running just for the sake of making up those miles.

Fortunately, in the past year, I’ve built up some options to help me cope with this to ensure that I continue to enjoy my running! Here are some that help me below:

• Change my route

I’m so fortunate to live somewhere that has a beautiful landscape and with a park nearby. The hills get a little bit annoying (very), but once I reach the top I’m rewarded with some beautiful views.

When I’m pressed for time however, or aim to do a certain mileage, I do tend to stick to the same routes which can get boring. I try to mix it up slightly sometimes by going down a different road or to explore where a mysterious footpath takes me… Keeps things interesting!

I once got lost in some woods with no phone signal, so if you do plan to make some changes… don’t be an idiot like me and please let someone know!

• Run an existing route in reverse

This is a super easy one to do and is effective. There is a 10k route I run that I now prefer the reverse version!

• Run at a different time of day

This might not be as simple to achieve, especially at this time of year where it’s dark for most of the day. Whilst we may have a favourite time of day to run, changing when I head out every so often gives me a boost and keeps me on my toes. 🙂

• Run with friends!

This is my favourite, I LOVE social running! Particularly when you’re climbing up a tricky hill, you all support each other as you climb your way up. It’s also good to have a chat whilst you plod along. I love combining exercise with some gossip! It makes running fresh and fun with company.

• Switch up the types of run

Not every run has to be hard or a recovery. Try intervals, tempo, fartlek or hill sprints!

These runs will also increase your speed and strength in race conditions – I definitely plan on doing more of them!

• Introduce an extra gym session to the week

Often, I do too much running and not enough strength and core work. As I continue to push myself with my running, it’s vital I head to the gym for these sessions.

There’s also yoga and pilates, all good for running if you’re not a fan of the weights!

Cutting out a run during the week isn’t going to end my running goals and it ensures that I can continue to be strong whilst running. I usually run there 😉 and then I walk back as I’m usually exhausted after an intense session!

• Rest

Sometimes I need a few days off to recharge those batteries and that’s OK! I do feel a little guilty sometimes, but I shouldn’t! After a few days rest, I give one of the options above a go to ease back into it.

How do you motivate yourself to keep running when you’re fed up or bored?