It’s common knowledge that running is a great way to get fit and stay fit. The problem is, so few people actually put forth the effort, and I think I have a hypothesis as to why. I daresay the most popular method of running is on a treadmill or elliptical machine. Some choose to do it on an actual track. All of these methods have two things in common: convenience, and a complete lack of inspiration.

For me, 5 minutes of running on a machine feels like 10 minutes, and 10 minutes feels like an hour. Even when I’m listening to music or reading a book or watching the news on the gym’s TV, I can’t wait until I’m done. Track running, for me, is even worse. I can still listen to music, but I’m not stationary (so no book or TV) and I’m left staring at the same walls as I run around and around and around. It gets monotonous and, frankly, boring. Maybe it works for some people. And if it works for you, that’s great. I’m not dissing it – just saying it’s not my thing.

I’ve found an alternative that seems better in almost every way: trail running. If I can find a secluded enough trail, I don’t always even bother bringing my iPod and headphones. The tranquility of nature is enough for me. Observing my constantly changing surroundings keeps me plenty distracted from my hard breathing and really makes the time pass quickly. Furthermore, I think the constantly changing terrain works your muscles more effectively as well – as well as improving your footwork, balance, and coordination. Best of all, though, it’s not only tranquil, interesting, and distracting, but it’s inspiring. Gee, imagine that. Running to find inspiration. You come away in the end not only feeling physically tempered, but also mentally stimulated. Starting off a day like that is, in my opinion, lightyears ahead of drinking a cup or two of hot coffee.