The New Commute
Running to Work
New ways of commuting is a hot topic at the moment. Whether it's the full distance or the final leg, our guide to travelling by foot provides all the tips and tricks needed to run to work this season.
Forward Planning
For those looking to run all, or part of their commute, the best tip we can offer is to forward plan. Dedicating a day to bring everything you need for the week will allow you to run without a large backpack, greatly increasing your enjoyment! If your work space provides lockers and showers it’s a great idea to keep everything there, from shower gel to deodorant, you don’t want to be lugging toiletries back and forth every day!
Breaking up the journey
For many, running all the way to work will be unachievable, however, there are still ways to introduce running into your travel routine. Those using multiple trains or tubes can cut travel time by running from a mainline station to your final destination. If you drive to work, consider finding suitable secure parking a few miles away from the office and running the final leg. If you drive into a city, running through areas of high traffic should actually save you time!
Change it up
One of the great things about running as a mode of travel is it allows you to experience more of the world around you. To keep your commute interesting and engaging, try exploring new routes each day - take in sights you’d never normally see and you’ll find yourself staying motivated.
Reward Yourself
We all know the health benefits, but there are actually significant savings to be made as well! Running to work will likely save you money by reducing the costs of fuel and public transport. As you begin saving, why not treat yourself to new running gear? Fresh kit not only improves your performance, but also provides great motivation to get back out there.
Take the Pressure Off
Once you decide to add running to your commute it’s important to ease yourself into it. If your body is used to sitting on a train or in a car every morning, those first few runs are going to feel very alien. Take time to build up your distances and the number of days you’re running. Don’t feel you need to immediately start running 10km each way every day.
Try short runs once a week, and work out a routine that suits your schedule, then slowly build your distance and days up. There’s no quicker way to halt a successful lifestyle change than taking on too much, too soon.
