• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • about
  • Pug Partners
  • contact/pr
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

Runs With Pugs

ok, the pugs don't run, but we do

  • race reports
  • Travel
  • Recipes
  • Link Ups
  • instagram Landing Page

The Latest

my spring race plans

a week of exploring new things

5 fitness superstitions

You are here: Home / Uncategorized / great tips for socially distant running

great tips for socially distant running

March 25, 2020      24 Comments

With the current situation, socially distant running is the new name of the game. Fresh air and exercise are both considered great ways to help stay healthy and keep up the immune system, but it can be discouraging to train alone and without a goal race in sight.

socially distant running

Set A Goal

Having a goal is the name of the game. Whether you are running alone or in a group, it’s important to have a focus. Maybe it’s time to start running for the first time, or tackle some speed work, or adjust your form. Now is the time. Use your treadmill or get out in the neighborhood (making sure to give others a wide berth) and get to work!

socially distant running

Do Your Best With Gear

Shoe fittings and gear shopping may be a bit limited for the time being. Many local running stores and big box athletic retailers have closed during this time of COVID-19, or are offering call-ahead orders and curbside pickup. This makes it tricky to get properly fitted for shoes and apparel. If you CAN get in for a fitting (and feel comfortable doing so), it really is the best way to get in the appropriate footwear. However, there are a few virtual and online options you can utilize for the interim.

  • Roadrunner Sports – Shoe Dog
  • Brooks Running – Shoe Finder
  • Asics – Shoe Finder
  • Saucony – Shoe Adviser at Saucony

Please note that none of these take the place of a personal fitting with a human being, so please make sure you are aware of different retailers’ and brands’ return and replacement policies before ordering.

black friday

Join An Online Group For Accountability

Motivation can be hard to come by when you’re alone, which makes socially distant running a special challenge. When you can’t join in on group runs, or when runners are recommended to stay six feet apart, what can you do? Take it online. Strava offers all kinds of challenges on their website and app to help keep you accountable. You could also look up local running groups on Facebook and join in there. Moms Run/She Runs This Town is a great option for finding local running groups. Heck, you could even just text or call a friend and each agree to complete miles on certain days to keep you on track.

socially distant running

Don’t Forget To Cross Train

Cross-training is a critical part of any running training plan, but it seems to be the thing that most runners neglect. Working other muscle groups helps keep runners strong and minimizes injury. Again, it’s hard to get involved with a cross-training program when you’re on your own, but so many coaches and programs are offering free or low-cost training at home that it’s easy to try a variety of systems to see what works best.

  • Yoga with Adriene – FREE yoga videos for all levels of practice.
  • One Peloton – FREE 90 day trial of the Peloton app (no bike or treadmill required).
  • CENTR – Six weeks of FREE access to Chris Hemsworth’s training program
  • YMCA 360 – Your favorite Y classes for all ages, wherever you are (FREE)

Register For A Virtual Race

So you’ve set your goals and handled your training… now what? We have no idea the next time a live race may take place again, so if you want to go the extra step, it might be time for a virtual race. Virtual races range from free to about the same fee as a regular vent. Some offer nothing more than the chance to submit your run on social media with a hashtag, while others will ship you a shirt, bib, medal and other swag. You choose the distance and the course, and complete the miles on your own terms, and on your honor. There’s something for everyone.

  • Gone For A Run Virtual Race Series: Gone For A Run hosts regular virtual events for holidays and/or causes. Races come with or without a shirt, but include a bib and medal.
  • Hot Chocolate 15K/5K: This Virtual Run consists of a 5k and 15k option, just like with the regular race series. Run (or walk) your chosen distance wherever you want. They’ll ship the goodie bag and medal right to you, along with your very own Chocolate Finisher’s Kit for a taste of our delicious chocolate.
  • Florida Race Day Timing: This Northeast Florida timing company offers the CoRUNa Virtual Race as a free, virtual option. No swag, but you can submit your time, which will be
socially distant running
courtesy of Gone For A Run Virtual Series

Join the Runner’s Roundup!

Link up each week to post your favorite running tips, experiences, race and training recaps, workouts, gear, and coaching ideas. Join your hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Running on Happy, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Fauxrunner each week for the Runners’ Roundup linkup! Your link must be running related. Unrelated links will be removed. You must link back to your hosts — it’s common courtesy and a lot more fun! Spread the link-up love by visiting at least two other #running bloggers! Leave a comment and find new blogs to read! Use hashtags #running and #RunnersRoundup to stay in touch and promote your content!

runners' roundup

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

What are your recommendations for getting through this time of socially distant running?

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Catrina says

    March 25, 2020 at 7:05 am

    Very good ideas, Jenn! I agree with you, goals are important.
    My goal at the beginning of the year was to run 2’600k (1’616 miles) this year, which is basically 50k (31 miles) a week.
    Now, I need to add some cross-training goals as well!

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 1:09 am

      Cross training is so important. I’m spending so much time on it with my PT, working on my glutes, hips and leg strength. For me, it’s more important than ever.

      Reply
  2. Lisa @ Mile by Mile says

    March 25, 2020 at 8:25 am

    Great resources! I didn’t think about the issue with getting fitted for new shoes. That’s a tricky one! I’m planning to do some virtual races I think since it doesn’t seem like we will have any live races for awhile at this point.
    Lisa @ Mile by Mile recently posted…Frederick Half-Marathon Training Week 4My Profile

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 1:08 am

      Our local running shop is still open, but they are doing curbside pickup. Shoes are something you really have to try on but people who are just starting to run now that they have the time (and nerves) to burn might not have that chance.

      Reply
  3. Wendy says

    March 25, 2020 at 11:47 am

    I’ve got a couple virtual races lined up–just did that 19 miler–but even though it’s fun, it’s not the same as a live event. I’m actually good with just running…y

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 1:05 am

      It’s absolutely not the same as a live event. Those first races back are going to be absolutely epic!

      Reply
  4. Deborah Brooks says

    March 25, 2020 at 1:10 pm

    I am loving that there are so many ways to stay connected and motivated right now. WE are hosting a few challenges and daily threads in our MRTT group too. Stay well!
    Deborah Brooks recently posted…Why You Should Keep Up Your Training After Your Race is CancelledMy Profile

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 1:04 am

      Same to you! Our MRTT chapter has been sharing workouts as well, and they are really great.

      Reply
  5. Chaitali says

    March 25, 2020 at 1:58 pm

    Great tips! The free app trials really are helping out with cross training. I’m trying the peloton one now and I’ve been doing Yoga With Adriene as well. Both really helpful.
    Chaitali recently posted…GratitudeMy Profile

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 1:04 am

      I love Yoga with Adriene. She has a really great and inclusive practice.

      Reply
  6. Kimberly Hatting says

    March 25, 2020 at 5:49 pm

    Virtual races are coming to the rescue for many of us right now. I’m trying to do as many of my postponed events “virtually” on their original date, then do the rescheduled ones later. Win-win!!

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 1:02 am

      Fortunately (kind of), I was only signed up for one race, which has been postponed. I’ll have to get something on my calendar one of these days.

      Reply
  7. Rachel says

    March 25, 2020 at 5:57 pm

    I agree, it is very challenging to stay motivated without a race in sight… but I did sign up for two virtual races which is a first for me. I did one today (but didn’t race it) and the other one I think I’ll do the first weekend in April.

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 1:00 am

      Oh, great! Virtual races are not my favorite, but it definitely helps a little with motivation.

      Reply
  8. Michelle D. says

    March 25, 2020 at 7:10 pm

    I’m enjoying some of the online options for working out and the way people have come together with different challenges to stay connected.

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 12:58 am

      There are so many great options out there! And I love that everyone is coming together to make things available.

      Reply
  9. Debbie says

    March 25, 2020 at 8:36 pm

    These are good tips. My goals have been lacking since my races were all canceled. I’ve just been running for fun, which is fine really. Oh, and stress relief!
    Debbie recently posted…Self Care for Runners: It’s Worth the Time! Plus a ROAD iD Giveaway!My Profile

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 12:57 am

      Stress relief for sure. My anxiety is out of control!

      Reply
  10. Judy @ Chocolaterunsjudy says

    March 25, 2020 at 8:37 pm

    Although I enjoy running in groups, I often run alone just due to circumstances. Although right now the paths can be crowded and some just don’t seem to get the message about social distancing!

    All great tips, Jenn!

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 12:56 am

      Our sidewalks are still fairly empty. There are a few times I have to step out of the way to make room for someone else, but it’s pretty rare.

      Reply
  11. The Accidental Marathoner says

    March 26, 2020 at 6:35 am

    I generally run alone so the social distancing part of running hasn’t been much of an issue for me. I do like the idea of an online running group, though. It’s great for accountability, and these days I could use some extra motivation. Stay healthy!

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 26, 2020 at 2:54 pm

      Extra motivation is the name of the game right here. Ugh.

      Reply
  12. Farrah says

    March 27, 2020 at 4:02 pm

    I didn’t even think about the fitting part for new shoes! These are all really great tips! The online groups are definitely helping me out right now.

    Reply
    • runswithpugs says

      March 28, 2020 at 5:45 pm

      Online is a huge blessing right now! I haven’t been able to get a refitting, and while my regular shoes are working much better than earlier in my rehab, I want to make sure I’m in the best option. I will just have to wait a little longer.

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CommentLuv badgeShow more posts

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

well, hello there…

bio
Welcome to Runs With Pugs. My name is Jenn and this is the story of my love affair with running and finding myself through fitness. From C25K to marathon, from triathlon to SUP, from broken leg to the recovery journey... I'm sharing it all. I'm a wife and mother of one, living in NE Florida, in love with travel, adventure, and food. Oh. We have pugs and a hedgehog, too. Thank you for joining us! We're glad to have you along for the ride!
Follow on Bloglovin


Save 25% on your ROADiD order here

Pinterest

find what you’re looking for

recently

  • my spring race plans
  • a week of exploring new things
  • 5 fitness superstitions
  • race report: raptor run 3k
  • my visit to the local stretch zone

Facebook Likes

archives

Footer

disclaimer

I am not a doctor or medical professional, nor do I play one on the internet. This blog reflects my personal experiences on my own fitness and running journey, and the processes that work for me. Before you begin any exercise regiment, please consult your physician.
Knock knock! Rolling through another Wednesday of Knock knock!

Rolling through another Wednesday of miles! It was not a great run (i got something in my contact and had to go home to flush it out!) but the company stellar as usual (@montarriba) and future me will say thank you for sticking it out.

I’ve got a busy day with some writing, a few emails and a trip to @danielle904beauty so stay tuned for that glow up!

How is your Wednesday? How are you rolling?

#running #streakingwiththecoolkids
Could they be any cuter? @lunanleonidas #pug #p Could they be any cuter?

@lunanleonidas 

#pug #pugpuppies
Let’s talk about balance. Balance is an area wh Let’s talk about balance.

Balance is an area where I sometimes struggle, physically and emotionally. It can be a challenge to fit in all the things I want and all the things I need. I don’t always love doing the mundane or tedious tasks that ultimately lead to the foundations of the things I am more passionate about.

I am taking a little more time to build on the basics, and find my balance. It’s going to lead to a healthier and happier me.

How do you find your balance? Do you struggle with the basics? 

#Running #streakingwiththecoolkids
Sometimes, the weather is too beautiful not to run Sometimes, the weather is too beautiful not to run.

I worked through some cardio under the blue skies and in the fresh air and then came home to @runsmartofficial’s base building boot camp. 

There was A LOT of focus on balance and feet and ankles, as well as ground work in the form of different planks and push-ups. 

The movements were small but effective and my legs are certainly burning! It’s going to get harder as we go, but I’m excited to spend more time on my stability and form, to see if it makes me stronger and more efficient over time.

What was on your workout calendar today?

#Running #streakingwiththecoolkids
This morning, I started on a new training plan wit This morning, I started on a new training plan with @runsmartofficial. I have a goal race in May, so I am going to see if I can make some improvements along the way.

I can admit that I am built more for distance than speed, but I am taking a crack and improving my pace over the next ten weeks. Keep your fingers crossed 🤞🏻!

Anyone else starting a new training plan and cycle?

#Running #streakingwiththecoolkids
Was alpaca 🦙 yoga postponed due to weather? Yes Was alpaca 🦙 yoga postponed due to weather? Yes.

Did I get over it and take myself on a walk instead? Yes.

Did my @getsprints pickle visor lead to a cool surprise? Also yes!

Are you running or racing today? Tell me about it!

#Running #streakingwiththecoolkids
Happy St. Patrick’s Day to you all! We were luck Happy St. Patrick’s Day to you all! We were lucky to have cool weather and blue skies for our run.

Planning on an untraditional celebration with some plans around town, but thinking I can snag a green beer along the way!

How are you enjoying this Friday?

#Running #streakingwiththecoolkids
And here we are. Back in the 30s. Can the weather And here we are. Back in the 30s. Can the weather make up her mind already?

Anyone else have whiplash from the back and forth of temps and conditions? Sheesh!

#Running #streakingwiththecoolkids
Have you ever raced a Raptor? I did and while the Have you ever raced a Raptor? I did and while the Raptor beat me, I had a blast the whole way!

Congratulations to the @staugalligatorfarm for another fantastic event. It was a beautiful morning, with lots of enthusiastic runners and walkers, and we were so happy to be there. 

A portion of proceeds went to benefit Orianne Center for Indigo Snake Conservation (OCIC) and AZA Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE), partnering to celebrate Eastern indigo snakes, which makes the race even more important.

Come take a peek at how the morning went and head over to the blog to read more about it! (Link in bio) https://runswithpugs.com/2023/03/15/race-report-raptor-run-3k/

#raptorrun #running #injuryRecovery #RunChat #Training #FitMom #RunnerMom #FitnessBlogger #RunnersOfInstagram #RunningBlogger #SRTT #FitAfter40 #WomensRunningCommunity #RunningCommunity #GoalDigger #HoneyStingerHive #TeamRoadID #GoodrFlamboyance #ShareTheSpark #SkirtSports #MomentumJewelry #BalegaImpi #LeagueOfgarmin #BeatYesterday #RunHappy #BDRAmbassador #RunJax
When the time changes and you are back to running When the time changes and you are back to running in the dark. It’s not the worst thing, although I’ll like it better when it’s not quite so cold.

Are you back to running in the dark?

#running #streakingwiththecoolkids

Copyright © 2023 · Wordpress Theme by Hello Yay!