The fall running bucket list

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Fall is just about here. We’ve made the argument that it’s the best season for running and now we’re bringing you the ultimate bucket list for runners. See how many of these you can get done over the next couple of months.

1. Do a fun run.

There are plenty of runs and races out there just for the fun of it. It’s not about setting a PB or placing in the top of the pack but more about experiencing a fun atmosphere and getting to know other runners.

2. Take a day trip.

After spending a chunk of vacation days on that well-deserved trip this summer, getting away for multiple days at a time might be a no-go. Try a day trip! Look at a map, find a place that’s within a couple hours of home and spend the day discovering new places to run.

3. Go for a crisp morning run. 

One of the best parts of fall is the crisp, cool mornings. A sunny day that has just the cool temperatures you hope for on the run is a refreshing and enjoyable experience.

4. Reward yourself with a post-run fall brew.

When fall rolls around, all of a sudden delicious pumpkin beers, stouts and fall-themed amber ales hit the shelves. If you ran hard, you deserve to pop the cap off of one of these babies.

5. Pick a fall-themed race. 

From Waterloo’s Oktoberfest, to Nova Scotia’s Valley Harvest Festival race to the Granville Island Turkey Trot, there are tons of races across Canada with a fall theme. Don’t let the season pass you by without participating in one.

6. Set a goal and work to reach it. 

It doesn’t have to be a race goal. Maybe you want to set a new 10K PB but maybe you just want to make sure you’re running consistently all fall. Running goals aren’t always about timing and place. Pick a goal, stick to it and stay motivated.

7. Run in the park and crunch leaves underfoot.

This game you used to play as a child is still fun as an adult. Stomping on a crunchy leaf in fall is always oddly satisfying.

8. Run in a colourful, well-treed area near you. 

This activity is one of the main reasons why we even run in fall. The gorgeous views that we are spoiled with in Canada in fall are to die for. Check the colour reports and plan accordingly. Just remember to slow down and actually take in the scenery while out. If that means going without the watch, so be it.

9. Go fall gear shopping.

Remember how exciting back to school shopping used to be? This time of year is one of the best for shopping. So you’re not going back to school, can’t you still hit the shops and pretend? Stock up on the best gear for the upcoming chilly runs.

10. Get cooking seasonal post-run meals. 

Harvest soup anyone? How about protein loading with a turkey and cranberry sandwich once in from the long run?

11. Participate in a fall race as a volunteer or spectator. 

Sometimes it’s fun to look at things from a different viewpoint. If you’re used to being one of the people running, try soaking up the race atmosphere from the sidelines by cheering for fellow runners. Or hand out waters to help those who are racing. It will feel good to give back.

12. Knock a running novel off your “Must read” list. 

We’ve been rounding up some excellent running reads. Fall is a great time to cozy up with a book. Pick one and enjoy.

13. Mix up the workouts and try a new one.

Sick of the same old workouts? Why not spice things up? Try a few new workouts. Some you may like, some you may not but either way, you’re likely to find a new go-to to add into your week.

14. Set a new distance PB. 

If you’re a runner who has been working on slowly increasing mileage, pick a distance that you’d like to reach and make it happen. Just be realistic. If you just met your 7K goal, don’t expect to bring it up to 20K just yet.

15. Stop into your favourite cafe or tea shop for a well-deserved post-workout beverage. 

How about a nice chai tea latte after a run? Whatever your favourite tea or coffee beverage is, reward yourself after a run well done.

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