How To Run Longer

Alright, let's be honest, who in the world doesn't want to know how to run longer? Running for lengthy distances is a great way to appropriate one's physical condition, and an even better way to a healthier lifestyle. There are obstacles, hindrances, and lessons to be learned along the way, so be warned that elongating your ability to run is no easy task.

What you will need on your jogging-journey to run longer:

• A running partner or MP3 player
• Reliable, nice running shoes
• Determination
• Book and pen (log)

1. Safety first: water, stretching, and sun protection. Look, unless you are Superman, your body will undoubtedly sweat. Proper hydration via water (or Gatorade, in some cases) is essential to heat stroke avoidance, your mental health, and all kinds of other physical processes that you need to sustain. Stretch, as well! Make sure you get those calves, quads, and hell, even your shoulders. Pulling a muscle is no fun, and will effectively put you out of shape (and eliminating any possibility to run long). Lastly, avoid the sun at whatever cost. This might mean running at night, in the shade, or inside on a treadmill to avoid heat stroke. If you must run in the sun, wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water!
2. Pace yourself, Rocky. We all know you are a bona fide bada** (haha, sure) but make sure to pace yourself when on a run. Going too far can lead to all kinds of physical problems, and hinder progress. People who tire themselves out one day, won't want to run the next day (and, after a while, end up in worse shape). If you are breathing too hard, slow down, dummy! Gradual exercise is the most effective.
3. Consistency, consistency, consistency. What did we just go over? You know those blow-hards at the gym who physically exhaust their bodies to impress everyone, yet are too tired to show up the next day. What happens to them? They end up only showing up around once a week, in the same shape, and frustrated as to why they aren't seeing progress. If you set a time of day, be there. Don't tire yourself, you aren't a harda** (although you might beg to differ), and consistently shape up your body to run longer.
4. Keep a log. This goes without saying. Record how long you ran, how high your heart rate was measured, your weight for the day, the temperature, and any other details. If you want to run longer you need to compare how far you have been running, no? Personally, a small spiral notebook that sits on his desk has worked best for this author.
5. Distract yourself. Yup, you heard it. Running sucks. Jogging is definitely no fun when all you have to concentrate on is your exhausted body, heavy breathing, and negative thoughts. Carry an MP3 player or running partner to help keep your motivation and determination up.

When you think about it, being responsible with your body is one of the most important steps towards effectively running longer. Gradual exercise, with appropriate precautions, and a physical logbook will aid you on your journey. Who knows, maybe you just might inspire a few friends around you to do the same thing!