I recently posted a basic 10k training schedule, which can be found here. Of course, following a training schedule is a lot harder to do than it initially seems. Why? Because it is hard to stay motivated.

If you are new to running, odds are that you think the “runners high” is a joke, and the only “high point” of running is stopping! Well this is understandable, because running is hard, especially at first. The fact that running is hard is precisely the reason why people either quit or never start their running training programs.

But here are 3 tips to help make running more enjoyable!!

1. Just watch TV instead….

Now don’t actually decide to skip your run so that you can catch the latest episode of American Idol. However, if you have a gym membership or a treadmill in your home, you can watch TV while you run. As long as you can safely do these two activities simultaneously, then I say go for it! If running is hard, then distracting yourself from the fact that you are running is a great idea. Speaking of distracting yourself.

2. Listen to something

You can listen to your iPod, or other music device while you run. (Warning, must make sure that you are extra safe and aware of your surroundings if you plan on listening to a personal audio device while running. I recommend listing to an MP3 player only when on a treadmill or a running track) Personally, I think that iPod playlists can get old after you have listed to them so many times, so you can try an arm band radio, or my personal favorite an audio book. If you have never tried it, I highly recommend downloading and listening to an audiobook while you do your runs. It can distract you from the fact that you are running and it will keep you motivated to run so that you can hear the rest of the story. To help with this, only let yourself listen to the audio book during your runs.

3.  Just don’t run

If you are really not in a mood to go running at least walk. Who knows, at some point while you are walking you might find that inner desire to break into a jog. Wow! Now you are running and you didn’t even plan on it.  On the other hand, you might just walk the entire time and never start running. That is OK also, we all have days where we would rather not do our workout, but at least you can walk it. Walking your workout is infinitely better than skipping it for the simple reason that you don’t break your streak of activity.

These are just three simple ways to stay motivated, I’m sure that there are several more, it you have your own tips or tricks, feel free to share them in the comments below.