7 Ways to Run Happy

I really love being a blog ambassador for Brooks Running — and not just because I get the hook up on sweet kicks, although, of course, that’s a heck of a nice perk.

It’s the community behind the brand, and it’s what they stand for. Speed, excellence, and hard work are certainly important, but kindness, inclusiveness, and encouragement are valued just as highly within the Run Happy community.

The latest package I received from Brooks contained two things:

• a snazzy pair of the new Launch 5s (which are a neutral running shoe with BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning and rebounding rubber, so they’re springy, leading to a smooth and energetic transition — plus the Air Mesh upper is lightweight and fabulously cool), and …
• a note with a reminder to embrace that Run Happy spirit, and few recommendations on how to do it.

And that note got both Jenn and me thinking about the different ways we can all do just that, because whether you’re a competitive racer, a casual runner, or walking your 5k and just thinking about taking it up to a trot, taking each step with joy in your heart will certainly lead you to a win.

7 Ways to Run Happy

1. Say hi to fellow runners. A wave, a smile, a gasping hello — it’ll cheer them up and give you a reason to smile.

2. Run with someone faster — or slower. Challenge yourself, challenge a friend.

3. Leave a note. Sidewalk chalk is SO FUN, and who doesn’t love a random word of encouragement?

4. Find a new reason to run. Raise money for a cause, enter a racing series, join a relay team — you’ll be surprised at how fun it is to race when you’ve got an exciting reason to do so!

5. Cue up a new playlist. See how some fresh beats can put a spring in your step. (Need inspiration? We’ve got loads!)

6. Join a club or a group. Joining a local track club or meeting up with a weekly group can give you some next level motivation.

7. Do something brand new. Usually a morning road runner? Head out in the evening and hit some trails or try a track workout.

What are your favorite ways to run (or do whatever workout you dig) happy? One of my go-to tricks is to just smile, even when (or maybe especially when) I really, really, REALLY don’t feel very smiley. —Kristen