Let’s say you have a loop route. In one direction it’s mostly gently, but consistently and perceptively, uphill with several big descents and in the other direction it’s mostly gently downhill with several big climbs. Which direction do you pick?
I tend to pick the generally downhill route. I’d rather get my climbs over quickly on steep hills than slog it out going slowly uphill over a long distance.
I would try to alternate the direction if I find myself developing a preference for either one. I guess it’s kind of an introspective approach, but if I start to get too comfortable I always switch it up to avoid stagnation. Forcing myself to run something I don’t prefer AND forcing myself to appreciate it challenges me. I like that. I’m Buddhist though, and part of that is the journey of self-challenge and analysis that we undertake.