With the winter weather still lingering around in most parts of the country, it's hard to find a time to get out and run when it's dark and cold in the mornings, especially when you're facing ice and snow on the roads and sidewalks. So when can you squeeze in that daily run? Well, we think lunch is the perfect time to lace up your shoes and hit the pavement (or treadmill) for a run. "Runch" (run lunches) are gaining popularity and here are three simple reasons we're big fans of the runch:
1. Productivity: Studies show that people who workout during the work day improve productivity in the second half of the day, while those who do not, tend to fall off after lunch. A run helps to get your blood flowing, not only to your legs, but to your brain. Your exercise-induced endorphins improve your mood. And we all know how great fresh air can feel when you've been cooped up in an office all morning. It's a win for you and for your employer.
2. Better Work Environment:
Runches are a great way to bond with your coworkers. Have a big project due and stuck on the next step? Going out for a run and talking out ideas in a fresh environment may be the key. Many employers are now offering incentives for employees who exercise and even offer team challenges or host their own 5k events. Talk to your employer about creating a charity team for an upcoming race and make it an office-wide affair!
3. Getting it Done:
Sometimes, it's the only way to get a run done. Let's face it- we all have a million obligations between work and family and sometimes there just aren't enough hours in the day. A lunch run is the perfect place to squeeze in a few miles when you couldn't make it out for that morning run or know the treadmill isn't in your plans that night. You can get 3-4 miles in without feeling like you're missing out on things at home. Lunch runs are especially great for those who travel a lot for work. Running during the day can also be a safer alternative than darker, early morning runs in an unfamiliar area. Be sure to check with your hotel for their recommended routes and where to avoid. So get out there and runch! Just remember to bring a good snack for before and a recovery snack for after (may we suggest keeping some Runnerbox items stashed in your desk?), some wet wipes, deodorant, and dry shampoo if your place of employment doesn't have shower facilities. Your co-workers will thank you. Do you runch? Leave a comment and let us know!