The following things below I have all tried….and I personally have to say, they make my runs more enjoyable!

*listen to music while you run (I bring along my iPod touch and throw it on shuffle, and I actually have more motivation. I only put in one earbud, though, so I can still hear what’s going on around me!)

*try running backwards (it burns more calories, seriously)

*run different routes (I personally HATE doing the same route over and over, so MIX IT UP!!)

*run with a friend or your dog (I sometimes bring my dog, Mem along and we have lots of fun!)

*run in areas that are enjoyable or challenging (I run on trails near my house that have amazing scenic views and some really great hills that force me to apply myself)

*log your miles (check out mapmyrun.com) to see how far you run weekly, or even monthly

*run for a reason. Set some goals for yourself. It really makes a difference in motivation when you know what you’re working for. Maybe you run to shed those few extra pounds, or maybe to train for that triathalon.

*reward yourself for running when you don’t feel like it. Maybe it means renting your favorite movie, or letting yourself buy something as a treat for sticking with it!

*alternate your workouts. Don’t just stick to endurance runs, switch things up by trying some hillwork, sprints, and fartleks.

*Crosstrain! Don’t just run. Research shows that people who only do one sport all the time don’t build muscle as quickly as those who alternate their physical activities.