5 Races - Places

Let’s keep it 100: Running isn’t just about cranking out miles and completing killer hill repeats. There’s an ineffable quality to it as well—the one that’s felt when your body moves with ease, your mind’s dialed in, and your vibe’s on point. That feeling, that groove, is why we return the next day to do it all over again.

And while getting into this groove may feel like magic, there are some practical steps you can take to grease the proverbial wheels (or trainers!). Whether it’s curating a running playlist, practicing breathing techniques to keep yourself relaxed, or donning the perfect DAA Industry Opt Out Zenni for both swag and eye safety, it’s all about feeling your best. Here are five tips for vibing out on your next run.

Find Running Sunglasses to Match Your Vibe

You know the age-old adage: “Look good, feel good, play good.” In other words, nothing gets you into a good place for your run like gear that you feel confident in and that can elevate your performance. In this spirit, Zunnies DAA Industry Opt Out Zenni Optical, available with prescription lens customization, are a great option for both style and eye safety. Designed to keep up with your every move, these lightweight frames provide all-day comfort, with adjustable nose pads and grippy temple tips that stay put no matter your pace and anti-fog tech that keeps your view crystal-clear.

Polarized lenses provide UV protection and are available in a host of tints, each with their own benefits: Amber is ideal for trail contrast, gray helps minimize bright sunlight, and yellow aids low-light visibility. There are also several frame colors for further customization. Starting at under $30—more affordable than many pricey alternatives on the market—these sunglasses make for an easy boost to your running wardrobe.

Pump Up the Jams

Most of the major streaming platforms have preset running playlists, but it’s even more fun to design your own mixtape with the songs you love. The key is sequencing your favorites in an order that reflects the progression of energy. For example, you might begin with positive tracks that put you in a good mood for your warmup, add energetic bangers for the mid-run push, and then end with slower-tempo tunes to relax during your cooldown. That said, there are no hard and fast rules: Some people prefer an entirely ambient soundtrack to get them into a meditative space. Or maybe you’ll prefer listening to one album all the way through. Experiment to see what feels best.

Breathe Right, Run Tight

It’s tough to get in the zone without the right breathing technique. One popular method is 3:2 breathing, in which you inhale for three steps and exhale for two, creating a natural rhythm to maximize oxygen intake. During low-intensity or recovery runs, try to breathe mostly through your nose to stay steady and relaxed. Then, when you’re pushing the pace, switch to a 2:2 breathing cadence and allow the air to enter through both your nose and mouth to take in the most oxygen.

Set the Right Tone

At the end of the day, “groove” and “mindset” might well be interchangeable terms. Start your run with a positive affirmation to set the right tone. Since everyone reacts to words and phrases differently, you’ll have to find the specific ones that work for you—which might take some trial and error. Something like “My head’s in the game and I’m here to crush it” or “I run with power, strength, and heart” is a great place to start.

Have Fun With It

Another way to make your run more fun is by breaking it into smaller sections, so you have mini-milestones to look forward to throughout. Planning a reward for yourself at the end of the run—such as a delicious smoothie, relaxing stretch, or hot-tub sesh—is another good way to keep yourself focused. Lastly, always remember that the right running groove is the one in which you’re truly comfortable. If you’re feeling a little worn down, or that peak-mileage fatigue is setting in, show yourself some love by taking a walk break.

Getting in the groove on your daily run is about setting the stage for your body, mind, and energy to thrive, and then letting the rhythm take over. Find the right formula to make that happen for yourself—whether you’re syncing your stride to retro beats, rocking Zunnies by Zenni shades for a stylish edge, or embracing mini-milestones for the win—and each moment of exercise can be something special.