Follow me on Strava. 🐢💨

Hey everyone! You might have seen my "aesthetic turtle jog" post, and honestly, running at a #SlowAndSteady pace has become my happy place. It’s not about breaking records, it’s about showing up and enjoying the movement. If you're a #RunnerInTraining like me, or just thinking about lacing up your shoes, you might wonder how to make running a consistent, enjoyable part of your life. And of course, how to connect with others on platforms like Strava! Here are a few tips I've learned that keep me motivated and enjoying every step, even when my pace is closer to a leisurely stroll: 1. Embrace Your Pace (and Track It Smartly!): Forget what you think a "runner" should look like or what pace you "should" be hitting. My mantra is "run like I’m being chased by a turtle," and that's perfectly fine! The key is consistency. Using an app like Strava is fantastic for this. It helps you track your Distance, Pace, and Time, not to compare yourself to others, but to see your own progress. When I look back at my activity log, even small improvements in Distance or a slightly quicker Time over the same route is a huge win. It’s a personal journey, and Strava lets you celebrate every step. 2. Make It an Aesthetic Experience: Who says slow runs can't be beautiful? I love finding scenic routes, putting together a great playlist, and wearing activewear that makes me feel good. Sometimes, I even stop for a quick photo if the view is stunning – it breaks up the run and adds a positive memory. This "aesthetic" approach turns my workouts into a form of self-care rather than a chore. It's about creating an environment where you want to run. 3. Set Achievable Goals: Instead of aiming for unrealistic speeds, set goals that are within reach. Maybe it's running for an extra five minutes, or going an extra quarter mile. For example, if my usual run is around 1.64 mi, my next goal might be to hit 2 miles without stopping. These small victories are incredibly motivating. Strava’s segments can also be a fun way to challenge yourself on familiar routes without getting too competitive. 4. Find Your Community on Strava: This is where the "follow me on Strava" part really comes in! Connecting with other runners, especially those with similar goals or paces, can be a huge boost. Seeing friends’ activities, giving kudos, and leaving encouraging comments makes the whole experience more social and less solitary. It creates a sense of accountability and shared journey. It's inspiring to see others out there, whether they're pushing hard or just enjoying a brisk walk. Plus, you might discover new routes or get tips from your network. 5. Listen to Your Body: Rest days are just as important as running days. If you're feeling tired or a little sore, it’s okay to take it easy or even skip a run. Pushing too hard can lead to injury and burnout. Remember, this is a long-term journey, not a sprint (unless you're feeling it!). Prioritizing recovery ensures you can keep showing up. So, whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting your #HotGirlWalkTurnedJog adventure, remember to enjoy the process, celebrate your progress, and connect with your fellow runners. And yes, if you want to see my latest aesthetic turtle jog, you know where to find me on Strava! Let’s inspire each other to keep moving, one happy, slow step at a time.