FORM loves running and you will too!

It’s springtime and there is no better time to lace up your sneaks and hit the pavement to get your heart pumping. FORM Run Club is in full swing and we want to invite you to join us every Tuesday morning at 6:00am for an “at-your-own-pace” 30 minute run with your FORM friends. That’s right, “at-your-own-pace”, which means whether you have ran 12 marathons, or don’t even own a pair of running shoes (yet), we want you to join us! It gets better! Of course a run wouldn’t be a FORM Run Club run unless it was followed up with yoga. Stay for a 30-minute yoga flow class from 6:45-7:15am. Numerous studies show the strength and flexibility you develop on the mat–namely in the core, quads, hamstrings, and hip flexors–can help you run more efficiently and stay injury-free. In addition to physical strength, yoga poses strengthen the mind, allowing you to control emotions while pushing yourself on the road.

Now, if you are a running skeptic (we know you are out there an we have heard all of the excuses), our challenge to you is to let next Tuesday morning’s run be the one thing you do that day that scares you. We understand that it’s not love at first run for everyone, but you will never know until you give it a few chances. Here are some simple actions you can take that we hope will inspire you to learn to love running if you do not already!

1. Find a buddy (or a few) - The road can be lonely! Ask a friend that you haven’t caught up with for some time to join you or join a running group (FORM Run Club) where you are guaranteed to have a running buddy each time you show up. Miles and minutes fly by when you are in conversation.
2. Discover the unbeaten path - If you take the same route every run, you will get bored. Even if it means travelling to a spot before starting your run, it will be worth it. We switch up the route often for run club. Let your runs be an opportunity to explore new places in your city.
3. Learn to be an early bird - Switching up the time of day you run can have a huge impact on your performance and overall mood. Studies show, those who work out in the morning have more energy, a curbed appetite and better sleep (not to mention fewer happy hour cancellations) than those who wait until evening;-)
4. Unplug - Challenge yourself to ditch your gear on your next run. With no watch to track your every pace per mile and calorie burned, you’re more likely to discover the simple joys of a run. Allow yourself this time to take in all that nature surrounds you with.
5. Schedule it - Make appointments for your runs during the week. This will help to hold you accountable and give your running more purpose. It doesn’t have to be much - just 30-60 minutes.
6. Race - Choose an upcoming race to keep you motivated to run regularly. Better, register for the race with friends. The race environment is incredibly motivating and inspiring. We suggest starting with a local 5K. FORM Run Club runs in at least one race per year as a group.
7. Reward yourself - It can be easier to stay motivated if you feel good in what you are wearing while running. Treat yourself with a flashy new running outfit for all the hard work you put in!

Still not convinced running is for you? Join us Tuesday morning and see for yourself how starting the day with a sunrise trail run with friends can shift your perspective for the day. Happy running!