Running With Friends (Not Scissors)

So this is one of those posts that I had started awhile back but decided i didn't like how that one was shaping up so I scraped it and finally decided to give it another crack so here goes...

So running for me is almost always a solo activity, my schedule makes it tough to join any kind of regular running group or even schedule regular runs. However I have had the opportunity to run a couple races and even get in some training runs with various friends and I must say there is nothing better than sharing the joy of running with others. Whether its getting someone started by helping them on their first couch to 5k run, or pushing someone to PR the 5k you are doing together, watching and pushing others to succeed is an amazing feeling. Even virtual support can make a huge difference while you may not be able to go on every run with someone even just commenting on someones facebook post about their last run can make a difference. So my advice to all my fellow runners out there is don't forget to share the joy and pass it on. You never know when you might be someones inspiration to help get them out the door and on the the run!

along that same line is the fact that I enjoy sharing my workouts via social media and I encourage all my running buddies to do the same. I have had a number of people tell me that seeing what I have been able to accomplish has encouraged them to get into a healthier routine, I cant stress what an amazing feeling that is. I stated way back in my first post that if I could get off my butt and do this than just about anybody could and its amazing to see the trickle down effect of that attitude. It doesn't have to be just running either, any kind of workout is a good one so if you happen to be reading this and not be in any kind of exercise routine go out there and find something you love doing and make it a habit, You will be amazed at what it can do for your well being and overall attitude towards life. I leave you with my ultimate running advice:

My Favorite Running Apps...

Holy Crap its been way to long, and for the 2 of you reading this I apologize but as I head into my Half-Marathon training I will attempt to be more regular with the updates, I am going to shoot for at least one a week. I've had a few other posts that I started but never got around to publishing I may bring them back at some point as I like the topics but just never got the gusto to finish them off.

I thought it would be nice to share a few of the apps that I use while running or have used and enjoyed so here goes nothing:

Couch-to-5K by active.com 
This is what I used to get started in running and I recommend it to anyone who is looking to follow in my footsteps. Ive talked about it before but I really cant praise it enough it does such a great job of easing you into things and the ability to change coaches and keep track of everything makes it a valuable tool.

Nike+ Running 
This is my primary running app and I love it. It truly has everything you could ever want in a running app. Training plans, both GPS and Treadmill support, run tracking, friends lists, social media support, are just a few of the many things you can do with it. I really could survive with this app alone and be satisfied that's how good it is.

Charity Miles
This is a bit of a different one, its purpose isn't to benefit you but to make your workouts have an impact on others. Basically you start up the app pick a charity (from about 20 or so different ones so there is something for everybody) and then hit the road like normal. The app will track how far you go and for every mile you run/walk you earn $0.25 for your charity. So simple and yet such an awesome idea.

Zombies, RUN!
This one is a little bit different, Its a fun way to spice up your runs every once in awhile. Basically it plays an audio story through  your headphones simulating you being in a world over run with zombies. It has a chase mode that you can turn on or off but when its on you will have zombies chase you and if you don't speed up your run you will get caught and lose your mission progress. Its an interesting idea and a fun way to change up your runs when you get bored.


So there you have it my favorite running apps hope you enjoyed it and I truly will try to make this blog a bit more regular for those of you interested in reading it.