Hey Runners! (Whether you run 10 steps or 10 miles)

pinbotchick

I'm not sure how far you're running but I always find the first 2 miles are the hardest. After 2 miles, the running high kicks in and I'm just lost in the run. I'm a book-a-holic and live to run for my audio book fix. www.audible.com has a great selection for iPod and MP3 players. I prefer running outside but now can run on the treadmill - the book distracts my mind so it's not so boring. I'm far from a speed demon as my training runs vary from 13 to 15 min mile paces...

To get through the first 2 miles - I count steps, imagine the distance as if running outside, make calculations of how far I've run and how much farther I have to go, slow down to make it easier, try to plan to resume a book at an exciting part (yeah, I'll admit to listening to several books at a time) etc...

Good luck!!! Run, Baby, Run...

skinnyack

I'm echoing dinos and megan- bust out some galloway- even if it's 10 steps sometimes it's enough to change my feelings about what Im doing- specially if it's just in training. Today for me it was picturing the time I wanted to beat (so I guess keeping my goals in mind). I also like to know where my downhill slopes are and when it hurts I tell myself I'll be fine once I go down hill... and I usually am... or have seen something shiny by then and forgotten about it. :glasses:

sunnyk8

I start picking little markers in front of me "Okay, just make it to that tree", then when I get to that tree, do it again... "Okay, just make it to the speed limit sign". It helps cut up the distance a bit and after awhile the objects get further and further apart (or sometimes on bad days, closer and closer) but it helps me focus on getting those mini accomplishments on my way to the bigger accomplishments.


I also second the idea, though, that walking is NOT bad. I will be doing my first marathon this June and I will be using galloway's method of run/walk

maddymama

I posted earlier, and I wanted to add that self reflection on how far I've come in a few months (from totally out of shape in January to being able to run for 30 minutes straight in March) ususally psyches me up and gets me motivated to push through whatever discomfort I'm in. I also picture my kids being proud of me for being so strong to keep running..... I think it's the focus on the progress I've made and my reluctance to return to my former self/ pride at my accomplishments that helps me focus and push.
Did that make ANY sense?
~maddymama