Stuck in a running rut?

June 14, 11:32 AMDes Moines Running Fitness ExaminerShelly Leonard

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Whether you've done your share of races or you're just starting out, running should always be fun. It's a great way to get in shape, meet new friends and just feel better about yourself. As Steve Cannon said, as soon as you start dreading the idea of heading out for a quick run, something needs to change. Try these three ideas to switch up your workout a bit:

Find a new route. It gets boring if you run the same path every day. Visit Map My Run or Google Maps, where you can create a new route and track your exact mileage. Map My Run even shows you traffic patterns and terrain - and, it's FREE to join.

Get listening. Find some new upbeat songs or subscribe to an interesting podcast. If you're out on a long run, you have all the time in the world to listen, so make it something good. Better yet, if there's a good book you've been dying to read, download an audio version from iTunes or Audible.com.

Find a running friend. If you're used to running by yourself, a running buddy is a great change of pace. Each time I run a long race, I make sure to have a friend beside me - it makes the time fly by and gives me a reason to keep going, even if I'm tired and want to take a break.

Don't have friends who run? Check out Capital Striders. It's a great Des Moines-based resource to find other runners in the area. They offer weekly training runs, discounts at several fitness stores and special prices for certain Des Moines races.

Cross train. Make sure you alternate running with another activity. If you use the same muscles each day, it doesn't give them a chance to build back up between workouts and could end up causing you painful injury. Instead, try biking, yoga, rollerblading or even a brisk walk.