Fall is a time of year that many runners can’t wait for. After a long, hot summer the cooler temps and low humidity are welcomed with open arms. However, fall running is not everyone’s favorite. Especially for runners who are just getting started or who struggle with motivation, fall can be a difficult time of year. The days are shorter and there is often wind and/or rain. If you are looking to fall in love with fall running, here are some tips to get you started.
How to Fall in Love with Fall Running
Make running part of your routine
If running is already part of your routine, it will be easier to stick with it once fall arrives. You may also appreciate the cooler weather after running in the summer heat!
Soak in the fall colors
If you are able to do some of your runs in daylight, try to look around and appreciate the fall colors. It’s a beautiful time of year!
Get used to running in the dark
Chances are, some of your runs will probably happen in the dark. Make sure you stay safe with these tips for running in the dark!
Wear the right gear for fall running
The right gear can make a huge difference. Invest in a few quality pieces of running gear like vest and jackets. Capris are also a good option for this time of year.
Wear layers on your fall runs
This time of year can be tricky with the weather. The wind can make it feel much colder, but if the sun comes out it can warm up quickly. Layers are perfect for adjusting on the run.
Set a goal to keep you motivated
If you are having a hard time staying motivated in the fall consider signing up for a Turkey Trot or a holiday race. You could also look ahead to a spring marathon that you can start building a base for. There are also challenges this time of year to run or work out a certain number of days a month that may be a fun way to stay motivated.
Get in the right mindset
If you are struggling with runs in the fall try to shift your thinking. Instead of noticing that it’s colder than it was a few weeks ago, try to remember that the cool air feels better than some of those hot and humid runs of the summer. When the wind blows, remind yourself that it will prepare you for winter running. Think about how good it will feel to get to the spring months and not have to start over with running.
Make it fun
Try to find a running buddy or a training group to run with, or sign up for some local races. There are usually a lot of small races this time of year that you can do for fun!
Don’t let fall weather cause you to stop running! Fall can be an amazing time of year for running if you figure out how to make it work for you. And on the really bad weather days, take your workout indoors or make it a rest day. Just try to keep up with a running routine at least a few days a week!
You may also like:
Essential Running Gear for Late Summer and Fall
How to Adjust to Running in the Cold
5 Tips to Help Runners Stay Motivated During the Winter
Dark Mornings and Fall Running
Do you like fall running?
How do you stay motivated to run when it gets dark and cold?
Setting a goal like a Turkey Trot or spring marathon is a great idea!
I am missing fall in the Northern Hemisphere and I think it’s a shame. Seeing all the brightly coloured trees gives me real FOMO!
It’s been really pretty around here the past couple of weeks!
I do enjoy the colors but I don’t run in the dark so that is a big downer.
I keep on running because I always have races to train for.
That’s a good reason to keep running!
While most are embracing the cooler temps, I’m mourning my summer heat, LOL. I much prefer being too warm vs. being too cold, so I struggle with getting the layers figured out as the seasons change and the cooler temps set up homestead. Of course, the wind is almost always a variable…so just when I think I have the layering game mastered, I have to adjust my gear strategy.
The wind is the worst! And it can change so much even just throughout a run. I prefer warm weather to cold as well, but I’ve enjoyed the cooler weather lately.
I am all in for fall! It’s my favorite time of the year. Adding speed feels good and less humidity-yes please
It’s definitely been easier to run faster as its cooled down over the last few weeks!
Our fall isn’t quite as extreme as yours. However, I love the drop in temperature and humidity. That helps so much.
I bet it feels amazing, especially in Florida!