What do you think about while running? Should you think about your form or your breathing or your foot strike? At times those are good things to think about.

It is good to occasionally check your form, something that I will probably address in the future, but unlike many sports, distraction can be a good thing. Nowadays many people run with their iPod and they know very well the value of distraction (maybe too well). If you are an iPod runner and that works for you, great! Just be careful if you are running near busy roads because you can't hear vehicles very easily. Instead of viewing running as a chore that you have to suffer through, allow your run to be a getaway or alone time can make it so much better.

I like to think and pray when I run. Getting outside and witnessing the beauty of what God has created makes for a great environment for prayer. Praising God, confessing sin, giving thanks, praying for others and asking God for provision are all good things to pray about at any time, including while you run.

In addition to listening to music and praying while running,your run can also be a good time for thinking about anything. I like to think about papers and sermons that I am writing, future plans, upcoming races, how I can be a better husband to Katie, and the list goes on. The biggest thing is to occupy your mind with something that you enjoy doing rather than locking yourself into thinking about running all the time.

For me, I think about running quite often because that is one of my passions, but if it is something that you may not enjoy as much, it is perfectly fine to let your mind wander. Just don't let your legs wander too far from the path or you may not know where you are (believe me, I've done that too and being lost is no fun!).

Question of the Week (feel free to post your answer as a comment by clicking on the link below): What is your favorite distraction while running? Post has no comments.