It’s not mandatory to vary your routes or run outdoors or on certain types of roads, paths, and trails to be considered a “runner,” but there are many benefits to it, from reducing boredom to preventing overuse injuries by mixing up the terrain and muscular demand on your body. Other runners may feel intimidated about venturing out on a new route or knowing “where to go”, so they run the same route day in and day out. However, many beginning runners fall prey to sticking to the familiar treadmill or track for fear of running out in the open where drivers and passersby can see them. From tracks to treadmills, neighborhood roads to sandy beaches, city parks to mountain trails, there’s a type of terrain, setting, or style of running to suit everyone. One of the best things about running as a sport is that it can be done virtually anywhere. Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members!
