Trail Mix
For the past couple of months, I’ve been doing my best Jabba the Hutt impression. Sitting on my couch, watching entertainment and stuffing my face with every dessert under the sun. However, this afternoon under that same beautiful sun, on a warm day in Indianapolis, I managed to motivate myself to go on a run. For context, last night I ate copious amounts of Thai food, Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream and watched The Hangover 2, on the couch, on my bottom. The last time I ran was October 30.
I'm Jabba The Hutt (from Flickr user Jazza2)
Getting back into the running mindset means one thing. The right music.
I headed to one of my favorite places to run, 100 Acres with my headphones, iPhone, some extra pounds and the right playlist to get me through the increase in heart rate, stress on my old bones, strange aches down my side and soon-to-be soaking wet feet (this is a trail).
Wet and Muddy
Running is a mental activity. The following playlist got me through a 3 mile-ish run. I’m confident it would get you through it too.
I started of with Summertime, the DJ Jazzy Jeff & Mick Boogie version from the Summertime 2: The Mixtape. It’s a feel good song that will distract you from the fact you really have no interest in running. Trust me on this one. It sets the tone for you to slowly ease into things and warm up the muscles.
The next song is key because you need motivation. I can’t think of a better song than N.W.A.’s Alwayz into Somethin’. This beat will push you through the main period of pain, where your heart feels like it’s in your throat and your lungs burn. And I know I don’t want to let down MC Ren.
With N.W.A ensuring success so far, you still need a song with a good beat to keep moving. Here I opt for Mos Def’s Wylin’ Out (Kut Masta Kurt Remix – Original) – it’s catchy, upbeat and keeps one foot in front of another.
After about 8-10 minutes of running, you need a song that will let you settle into a comfortable rhythm. This is where I do my best thinking, brainstorming and sometimes find my rare moment of running Siddartha (the experience where you forget you’re actually running). Gang Starr’s Words I Manifest (Remix) is just what the Doctor ordered. It’s poetic.
After some Zen and the art of running, It’s time for a little more energy through the headphones. Hit play on M.I.A’s Paper Planes (Diplo Remix). You can’t go wrong with this one, and you can dream of being a millionaire.
Follow up something familiar with a curve ball like I love Acid by Luke Vibert. It’s a transition from hip hop into some techno, but manageable techno and an added spring in your step. It’s needed.
And finally, end with a classic like Electric Relaxation by A Tribe Called Quest. The techno from the previous song has transitioned you into the final leg. You want to cross the finish line with a smile on your face and some swagger. This song will guarantee that.
So that’s my trail mix. It’s perfect for those of you just starting a resolution or are dusting off the old KangaROOS or suddenly realized you’ve been sitting on a couch for two months. If you’re not into running, this mix will keep you bopping your head while cooking, driving or sitting in a cube.
Click the image below to open this mix in Spotify.
Click here to see photos I’ve taken while running.
I’m out and feeling some aches.
Spotify Trail Mix
