Running efficiently has a lot to do with rhythm.
Rhythm in your breathing, in your stride, and in your arm swing all help you to keep your momentum. Have you ever considered inserting the rhythm of prayer into your runs? It could be some rote prayers from your childhood, meditating on scripture passages you know by heart, or a plethora of other options. The benefits are both spiritual and physical:
🙏 You’re praying (enough said)
🌬 Good show of fitness/wind if you can, for example, pray a whole rosary while running
🏃♂️ For those with teammates/running buddies, being able to hold a conversation is a good sign you’re running at a relaxed pace (zone 2ish). If you’re running solo (or with a prayer and running buddy) the prayer can serve the same function
🕑 Having something to recite and meditate on can help take your mind off the discomfort
If the idea of praying a rosary freaks you out more than a double threshold session, fear not, there are endless options ;). Stay tuned for more ideas in future posts, and I would love to hear your ideas in the comments below.