How Giving up the Fitness Watch Changed the Way I Run
I gave up wearing an Apple Watch about three marathons ago. A fitness watch is a great tool for most runners, but it’s not for me, especially when I’m not training for a specific race.
It turns out that for me there is a distinct freedom in running without a training plan. After years of following structured programs with specific pace, distance, and types of workouts, I have learned to appreciate the art of intuitive running, letting my body lead the way rather than the clock.
The joy of running without a watch
The decision to give up running watches was a conscious one. No more obsessing over pace, distance or heart rate. Instead, I developed a deeper connection with my body’s natural rhythms and signals. I measure my runs not in miles or minutes, but in landmarks, breathing patterns, and perceived effort. My body has become my most reliable indicator.
How to Run Without a Training Plan
Without numbers, I focus on three key metrics:
Pay attention to your breathing rhythm
My breath became my personal speedometer. A “good” pace means breathing through your nose or maintaining a comfortable conversation. When I want a little push, I allow myself to breathe harder, but never to the point where I can’t string together a few words. This natural governor helps me be honest about my level of effort.
Listen to your body’s feedback
I pay attention to how my feet touch the ground, whether my shoulders are relaxed, and whether my form feels fluid. These physical signals tell me more about the quality of my running than any GPS watch. When my steps feel light and my posture remains high, I know I’m moving well.
Pay attention to signs of recovery.
Perhaps most importantly, I listen to how my body feels the day after my run. A little muscle fatigue is normal, but any hint of joint pain or extreme fatigue means I need to go back. This focus on recovery has helped me avoid injury more effectively than when I followed strict training plans.
Benefits of a “slow and steady” approach
Without a race deadline looming, I can truly adopt a “slow and steady” approach to my running. I don’t prepare for a specific event; I’m creating a sustainable running practice. It means:
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Do really easy days (most days are easy days)
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Gradually increase the distance by touch, rather than forcefully advance.
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Respect recovery as much as running itself.
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I only add intensity when my body feels especially firm and ready.
Benefits of Intuitive Running
This more intuitive approach changed the way I think about running. Gone is the pressure to hit certain paces or weekly mileage targets. Instead, each run becomes an opportunity to tune into my body’s capabilities on that particular day.
It’s not just my hippie mentality – it’s a real fitness hack for me. I find that I’m more consistent than ever, partly because I don’t burn out trying to stick to an arbitrary schedule. Some days I run longer, others shorter. Some days I naturally pick up the pace, and other days I’m content to move at a whisper.
Don’t get me wrong. I know there is a time for intensity and diligence —after all, I’ve run six marathons . but it is ideal for maintaining fitness and enjoying running. I’m building a foundation that will serve me well when I decide to train for my next marathon. More importantly, I am developing a sustainable practice that I can maintain for years to come.
The beauty of running lies in its simplicity. No gadgets, no complicated workouts – just me, my breath and the road ahead. It’s a reminder that sometimes less structure leads to more consistency, and paying attention to our bodies can be more valuable than any data a watch can provide.