All posts filed under: Outdoor Running

10 Vacation-Worthy Destination Races to Run in 2018

Written by Kevin Gray

Running outdoors is one of the best activities there is for health and fitness. It’s even been shown to reduce anxiety and promote your general well-being. Going on vacation is another proven (and fun) way to recharge your body and mind. So, put them together by signing up for destination races. You’ll have got a great excuse to leave town, while still logging some miles. You’ll find races in beautiful settings that cover ground along coasts and over mountains all over the world. This year when you’re planning your race calendar, consider the below destination races. Each will take your breath away in more ways than one. Great Wall Marathon – May 19 See one of mankind’s greatest wonders from atop, all while getting some exercise. The Great Wall Marathon offers three distances—a marathon, half marathon, and a 5.5-mile fun run—that take you over hills, through valleys, and into villages. Instead of the usual tourists, you’ll be surrounded by a couple of thousand runners. And, at the end, you can enjoy a festive atmosphere and post-run …

Avoid These 4 Common Marathon Mistakes

Written by Nadia Murdock

So, you’ve decided to run a marathon! Now it’s time to map out your prep plans for ultimate success. Large half and full marathons can bring in over 50,000 participants across the US. However, not everyone crosses the finish line, either due to injuries or poor training. So, we asked professional runners and running experts about the most common marathon mistakes first-timers make—and how to avoid them. You’ll be smooth sailing through that finish line. You’re training without a plan. Everyone runs and trains differently so finding a plan that works for you is key. In order to see success and enjoy the process, you’ll need to find a program that is the right fit. Don’t choose a plan just because it’s popular or worked for other people. “Not following the right training plan for your body and your liking is a common mistake,” says seasoned runner Marisa Lerna, who has run several successful marathons. “Be sure to follow a plan that suits your likings and needs. If you don’t, [then] you will not want …

10 Tips for Staying Safe While Running in the Dark

Written by Caitlin Miller

The weather is finally starting to feel more like spring. You may be itching to ditch the treadmill and hit the pavement for a nice run. For many of us with day jobs, the most realistic option for squeezing in an outdoor workout is either before that first cup of coffee or after hours. As relaxing as a morning or evening jog can be, you’re probably hitting the streets in the dark. Don’t let a little a.m. or p.m. run deter you. Armed with a few key tips, you can stay safe and enjoy your run—any hour of the day. Read on for Aaptiv trainers’ top tips for staying safe while running in the dark. Have a light handy. When you lace up for a night run, make sure that you’re following a route that is well lit. This will help you keep your eyes peeled for any other runners or vehicles around you. Additionally, it will actually prevent you from any potential injuries. “The most dangerous thing about running at night is hitting uneven …

man runs outdoor running and treadmill running

Do Outdoor and Indoor Running Train You Differently?

Written by Lindsay Tigar

For runners, indoor and outdoor running provide different benefits and setbacks. The great outdoors comes with changing scenery and less boredom. But it also means facing the elements and some terrain challenges. On the other hand, the treadmill offers an entirely customizable experience, but with the same view for miles. Depending on schedules and individual goals, both outdoor running and treadmill running are necessary components of any runner’s routine. So, it’s important to know how logging miles indoors and outdoors varies. “It’s important to recognize that there is a difference between the two and also to know when to utilize each,” personal trainer Ambyr Chatzopoulos, CSCS says. “If you are not aware of the differences, you may not get as much from your workout or training as you would hope.” Here, pros share the main differences been outdoor running and treadmill running—and how to alter your routine to balance out the variances. You have to work harder to pace yourself inside. Based on which setting you select, Chatzopoulos says that pacing yourself on a treadmill …

How to Train for an Obstacle Course Race

Written by Mark Barroso

Obstacle course racing, or OCR, is the sport that mixes running and preconstructed obstacles to challenge your mind and body in a unique way. There are competitive heats, where you can earn cash prizes or just-for-fun heats where you get to play in the mud like a 10-year-old. Regardless of your obstacle course race goal, one thing is for certain: You will learn a lot about yourself at these events. OCRs typically range from three to 14 miles, with some longer races reaching 30 or more miles. A typical OCR requires you to run, climb, crawl, jump, and slide your way through sometimes-rough terrain in an effort to earn a medal or headband, beer, swag, and a notch on your fitness belt. Once you’re ready to plan your first race, these eight training, nutrition, and travel tips will help make your experience seamless. Be warned though, a single OCR is rarely enough because the post-race feeling of accomplishment is addictive. Get ready to try something new with this OCR preparation guide. 1. Sign up This one …

5 Things Runners Should Know Before The First Race

Written by Caitlin Miller

Whether you’re tackling a 5K or a half marathon, running your first race is a big deal. And, although you’ve already put in the legwork (literally!) with the training, there are a few other things to know before lacing up on race day. We chatted with two Aaptiv trainers to get their best race day tips for anyone looking to crush their first race! Stop running a few days before. You might be tempted to ride that runner’s high straight through until the race, but you’d be wise to give your body a bit of a break leading up to it. In fact, to see maximum benefits on race day, you may need to hang up the running shoes entirely for a few days. “A lot of beginners don’t taper before a race because they think they have to keep running in order to get better,” explains Aaptiv trainer and running coach Meghan Takacs. “I encourage some cross training—like [indoor cycling] or rowing—and make sure you take care of your body [via] a massage, cryotherapy, …