Listening to podcasts while running has completely changed my relationship with running.
After a long break from distance running, I came back to it in September of 2016.
I’m four years older than I was when I started running, but I enjoy it now more than ever and the long distances don’t bother me like they used to.
I honestly look forward to my daily runs, which are in the 6-mile range, and my weekend long runs which are currently between 10-14 miles.
So what changed?? It’s the power of the podcasts.
And it’s funny; I heard the tip about running and listening to podcasts when I was running a lot in 2014.
A coworker of mine at the time also enjoyed distance running and was addicted listening to podcasts. It was around the time the popular Serial podcast had just started and he recommended I listen while on a run.
I thanked him for the suggestion and quickly moved on.
I needed the beat of the music to keep me going!
How could he run a fast pace while listening to someone talk? Clearly, he didn’t know what he was talking about.
Turns out he did.
Fast forward to September of this year. It’s the day before my Fantasy Football draft and I’ve done zero research on any players.
This was my third year playing Fantasy Football. I’m the returning champion in one league. And I know not doing my pre-draft research can kill my chances for a winning season.
I’m also visiting my parents this particular weekend in my hometown of Visalia, California, which means no spin classes for me.
So instead I lace up my running shoes and decide instead of going with a boring old playlist, I’ll listen to a podcast.
I pick one with high rankings on the iTunes podcast list that covers Fantasy Football and start running. Next thing I know, I’m over an hour into my run, I feel like I could go an hour more, and I’ve figured out my draft strategy.
Side Note: If you play Fantasy Football you must listen to Fantasy Focus. The host Matthew Berry is hysterical and the info is top notch. I won one league this season and came in second in another league thanks to this little gem.
From that day forward, I’ve listened to podcasts when I run. I swear they make the time fly by.
I realize now I never got tired of running, I just got bored.
I wasn’t constantly updating my music playlist and I hate leaving music in someone else’s hands by listening to a station on Spotify. So instead I was just listening to the same played out songs over and over.
Who wouldn’t get bored?
Now I promise my runs aren’t nearly as daunting. And my time hasn’t been impacted. Seems that “beat of the music” theory just didn’t have an impact on me.
So what podcasts are my favs?
Well of course, Fantasy Focus is awesome for those interested in football. Another great thing about this podcast is it comes out 5 times a week. Always a fresh episode to enjoy.
For a long run, there is nothing like the Rich Roll podcast.
He talks with inspirational athletes, nutritionists, and leaders in health. I also love that these podcasts are long. Many are over an hour and a half. Perfect for a long run.
Rich is really motivating too. He has accomplished so much, including being an ultra-triathlete. Plus he is a great interviewer.
10% Happier is also a great podcast.
Dan Harris has on inspirational people that have changed their lives by carving out time for mediation.
If you have a favorite podcast please share it in the comments below! I’m always looking for something new!
And with that, I’m off to grab some fro yo!
Today I have 5 years and 5 months of sobriety. And it’s the 5th. Kind of my golden sobriety birthday. Extra toppings for this girl!
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