Runners Explain...

cdub78

I'm not a runner...AT ALL. I see people running down the street and always look to see who is chasing them! I have a very hard time running on pavement, treadmills, etc. The only thing I can stand to do is the ellyptical machine and even that gets really boring after about 15 minutes. Any suggestions to liking to run? Has anyone started out hating it and now love it. i know it's one of the best ways to lose pounds but I seriously hate it. My shins burn and I lose breath too fast. I quit smoking about 10 months ago so it should be better to breathe now.

xxx_Pink_Princess_xxx

Im not a runner either and sterted the C25K program. I think I now enjoy what im doing because I see it as a major challenge! You just gotta get out ther hun xxx

CaptainAmerica1970

Me! that would be me.

amayzingamanda

I used to really hate it. For some reason (aside from occasiona pain in my shis) I get major pain in my arches every now and then. I love the elliptical for it's low impact.

I started out walking with my mom a few years ago when she joined weight watchers. I did it with her more so she didn't have to go by herself (this was when I was in HS and we would go tothe track at my school). So maybe try starting there...and walk at a brisk pace for a while. It could help condition the muscles in your legs to get used to light jogging and eventually running.

I'm not any type of medical expert...this is just my opinion.

cheeksv

C25K is the best way to ease into running. I love it....and hate it. IT is boring you are right, but the thing is it makes you stay alone in your mind for at least a half hour a day. think about what you've got going on, what else you need to do today, watch TV anything and it will get you through it and even relax you. physically it is hard, daunting and exhausting but take your time and you might learn to love it and if you don't ...then you don't but, you might learn that it is something you can add to your routine a few times a week anyway.

skinnylove00

just tell yourself ~it does not matter how slow i go, as long as i dont stop~
take it easy on yourself. remember that you are burning off SO many calories (when i finish my run, i usually think WOW, i just burned off a small french fry at mcdonalds!!) run with music, chew some gum if you need to while you run, etc.... the hardest part is really just lacing up those running shoes and getting out of the house. the rest is CAKE

takm0527

I would not say I am a runner...but I agree...the c25k running program is awesome...after the first two weeks I was hooked! I like that it starts you out nice an easy as you build

hikeout470

I started running by walk/running my dogs and before I knew it we had worked up to a 5 mile run. They need the exercise, and working up to the running part kills two birds with one stone.

rure13

I hated running before but now I enjoy it (: I used to run on the treadmill but it was too boring, and I hated that I wasn't going anywhere so then I started running around my park and that made it more bearable. Just find some good music to listen to while you run, good luck on your journey!

WildflowerAL

I have been running for about 8 years. It did not start out fun--but over time it does become addicting. At this time I have a hard time taking off days. I generally run 5 days a week and feel guilty for the two days I take off.

I did not really like running until I hit the 3 mile mark--then it became fun. It just seemed to be the magic number for me--it was past the pain.

Then I wanted to see how far I could go, how fast I can run and what challenges I can meet. Since that time I have completed a marathon, several 1/2 marathons, a 200-mile relay (with a team--and I'm doing another one this year), a 25k trail run, numerous 15k, 10k and 5k.

Keep at it!!

OneTonPony

i've always HATED running. the only time i would do it was during soccer as a kid... when i started my weight loss challenge (early june) i would walk every day and try to gain distance and shorten the time. now, i'm starting to add jogging to my walking. I've found it really enjoyable!! In order to keep that up, i don't push myself to the point of hating it...i jog while it feels good and is fun, and if i need to, i stop. I'm not training for a race or anything at this point, so i don't feel the need to push myself...i find though, that while i'm jogging i'll tell myself "just get to that far tree and i can walk" but i end up going a few steps passed the tree!!

Anyway, hope this helps...start by walking!!

bluefever

I really recommend the C25k program. It starts you out really slow so that you don't burn out or get hurt. I am on week 7 now and I while I don't love it yet, I definatly don't hate it!

ilookthetype

C25k = awesome. I'm competitive, I can totally do a program. That's what I was telling myself doing W5D3 in 92* heat yesterday. And I completed it.

Dan Savage and podcasts in general have been my entertainment. Also, 80s glamrock/hair bands are good motivation, and occasionally I listen to some angry T.Swift and I kick booty.

If you want to work out inside I suggest TV! Pop in a sit com/fav show and run/walk/elliptical while you watch. I used to watch on my iPod when I went to the gym.

MissAnjy

I hated running. DESPISED it actually.
I recently completed 9 weeks of C25K and ran my first full 5k outside (not a race, just a run outdoors)
i LOVE running now.

I'm starting to train for a 10k in the beginning of August.

Alacey88

I used to really hate it. For some reason (aside from occasiona pain in my shis) I get major pain in my arches every now and then. I love the elliptical for it's low impact.

I started out walking with my mom a few years ago when she joined weight watchers. I did it with her more so she didn't have to go by herself (this was when I was in HS and we would go tothe track at my school). So maybe try starting there...and walk at a brisk pace for a while. It could help condition the muscles in your legs to get used to light jogging and eventually running.

I'm not any type of medical expert...this is just my opinion.

This is what I did with my bf..... as he was training for the Highway patrol....we started out by walking then brisk walking then little running/walking then running....if you are doing it alone maybe you should get some music that is upbeat that will motivate you, but if you are doing it with a friend, make small challenges that you and your friend can achieve.....

Bambi4U

Definitely try the elliptical again, but listen to the radio, or you ipod, or walk-men or something to keep you occupied, because yes it is boring, running, jogging, or walking in place. But I love the track or walking around the block outside, that is why you have to find something to keep you busy........something you like too, if you like dancing or anything like that try a Zumba class or Turbo-Jam............anything close to dancing will keep you occupied and you will absolutely LOVE the results!

LyneaS

#1 It burns a lot of calories. #2 It gives me alone time to listen to music and think about stuff without interruptions. #3 It is really addictive once you get more experienced. I signed up for a 5K months in advance so that I would have to keep myself on track. It really kept me motivated. I also started out by walking and gradually adding short periods of running until I could run a mile and then 2 miles and so on. Good luck!

rgunn02

Start off slow and easy - I started by using Couch to 5k. Get fitted at a running store (not a sport's store) for a good pair of runners, download your all time favourite music to listen to and off you go! I started running last January and I love it! I get an extreme sense of accomplishment when I look at my gps and see that I've done 10km and it's that what keeps me coming back for more.

ncgatorfan

Yes, I have a wonderful suggestion - and it works! I HATE running too. But the only way I got it to the time to pass really fast is doing intervals (walk/run) and build it slowly. Great fast music is a must too. I run on the treadmill (can't stand the heat) and the time FLIES by when doing intervals. I started out one week with 10 mins of warm up, 1 minute jog, 2 minutes walking, repeat 10 times, then cool down. I did that 3 times that first week. I wasn't ready to up it yet, so I did it again the 2nd week. 3rd week, I upped it to 1:30 mins of jogging/1:30 walking and did that for 2 weeks. See where I'm going? I can now run for 40 minutes straight and I am overweight! Try it. It blazes calories and makes you stronger for other forms of exercise. Good luck. Here's a great link I found for beginners. http://zenhabits.net/beginners-guide-to-running/

LosinMama2b

I used to HATE it...I mean HATE it...and I would do everything I could to make excuses..."I'm not a runner" or "I can't run" or "I'm just not built like a runner". It was all ridiculous! I started C25K as a sort of challenge to myself...I was tired of my excuses and wanted to prove whether my excuses were the truth or just excuses. I couldn't do that without trying out running. I'm currently on week 5 day 3 and I LOVE it...yes you heard me...LOVE IT. Its such a rush to get past the next goal...to know that you did something you thought you'd never do. I can't even describe the feeling really. I have to say that I never would have done it if it werent for the C25k app on my iphone. It tells me when to run and when to walk and works me gradually up the ladder of longer runs than walks. I've also registered for my first 5k ever in September. I CANT WAIT!

emmaleigh47

I HATED running... even when I was thin .... and I LOVE running now.
I have found big luv in the run/walk/run formula... knowing that I am just another couple of minutes away from another walk break is the ticket for me.

I have also found that it takes almost 20 minutes for me to feel good... if I judge any run by how I feel before I hit 2 miles I would NEVER run ... once I realized that and reminded myself instead of freaking out that ... yep every first couple of miles suck... I realized I love it.

When I ran my first half marathon I even wrote on my arm in Marker ... it all gets better after 2.5

fastbelly

I was like you, I used to find it pointless, after all there are gyms where you can burn the same calories without being exposed to the elements. I live in Ireland you see, elements (in particular rain) play a big part here.

Anyways, recently I started walking and while walking I was mostly listening to either podcasts I'm interested in or audiobooks or something to ocupy my time. Recently (just over 2 weeks) I started a program called c25k (couch to 5 kilometres) which is a interval training program to get you running. I downloaded the podcasts for the program and I jog, I liked it so much that instead of the half hour that the podcasts last, I usually let it run to the next week and do another full program for a full hour or jogging/walking.

I can tell you, I never saw myself as a runner before but now, I can't think of me not going out and walking/jogging.

campi_mama

This question always intrigues me. Find something you like and do that instead. There are lots of things you can do that will get you in shape besides running. Try kick boxing, swimming, basketball, Zumba, spinning. There are so many options. Running can be hard and it's even harder if you don't like it. Life's too short to waste your time doing something you hate in my opinion.

Mindful_Trent

I always said I hated running, but then one day I realized I'd never given it a chance. I've always been heavy and, admittedly, running is not the easiest thing to do when you're heavy. So I decided to challenge myself. I found the C25k (Couch to 5k) program and committed to finishing that program - if I still hated running when it was over, then at least I gave it a shot. But I Don't hate it! I found that I enjoy the challenge it gives me, trying to run a little faster or a little longer. Running can be incredibly relaxing - I prefer to run outdoors with no music - just me and my thoughts and the environment. I'm not a big fan of running on the treadmill or using the elliptical, as I feel like a mouse in a wheel going nowhere - running outside is much more fun to me.

That said - running's not for everyone. There's no reason you should have to do any particular activity. Sounds like you barely tolerate the elliptical as it is... don't be afraid to find activities that you actually ENJOY - try different things. There are many different cardio activities out there, and there's no reason you should feel stuck doing something that you don't enjoy. Swimming, hiking, walking, group classes, kickboxing, at-home DVDs, dancing... the sky's the limit.

Edited to add: I agree with the poster above who said it takes about 2 miles to really enjoy/get-into the run. I have to push past the first part of a run which is always a bit of an effort to get started, but then after a bit, something changes and I feel great!

Lanfear

I would not say I am a runner...but I agree...the c25k running program is awesome...after the first two weeks I was hooked! I like that it starts you out nice an easy as you build

This!! I started off hating running, thought I'd give C25K a go as someone told me it was good for burning fat - I have now done my first 5K race AND I've joined a running club!!!!!

I would also add that if you don't like it, you'll never keep doing it, so you should really find something you enjoy and will keep on doing - for me it's horse riding and cycling. No reason why you should have to run, there's sooooo many things out there you could do

Flyntiggr

I HATED running... even when I was thin .... and I LOVE running now.
I have found big luv in the run/walk/run formula... knowing that I am just another couple of minutes away from another walk break is the ticket for me.

I have also found that it takes almost 20 minutes for me to feel good... if I judge any run by how I feel before I hit 2 miles I would NEVER run ... once I realized that and reminded myself instead of freaking out that ... yep every first couple of miles suck... I realized I love it.

When I ran my first half marathon I even wrote on my arm in Marker ... it all gets better after 2.5

I'm with Emma. I absolutely despised running. I mean, really, really hated it. I've gotten better over time, and now miss it if I don't get a run in.

I think most runners would agree that at least the first mile sucks. Problem is, most people who hate it quit before that marker. I've gone from a 19 minute mile in January to a sub-12 minute mile now. AND, I'm training for a half! (did I REALLY just say that??!!!)

adamcf

Yes, I'm one of those hate it then loved it runners. I started out in February running to lose weight. At first, I really didn't want to get going. But after I got passed a few good runs, I really got into it. I even did a 1/2 marathon last Saturday. Rain nor shine, i'll run because I love it.

You said your shins hurt. my advice is let your shins heal before trying to do a solid run. those are called shin splints. it goes away, but you have to figure out what your doing that causes it. google, "good running form" or youtube it. good shoes are a must. I bought some inexpensive new balance shoes from a discount store and those worked for a while. But after I really got into it, I figured out that I really needed the 100 dollar shoes. mostly try to stick to New Balance, Saucony, Asics, and maybe Nike or Reebok. Try the inexpensive ones first and get an idea for which shoes feel the best.

take it easy at first, try to glide along rather than hitting your feet on the ground. when you run, make it so that your feet don't make any noise. be careful of your knees. Tendons in knees tend to get really sore when first running. If you feel pain, start walking. Work up to a good pace.

your first few runs, just go a half mile or a mile. it doesn't matter how far you go or how long. What matters is that you continually increase your distances and speed over a long period of time. In about 3 to 6 weeks, you'll be surprised at how good of a runner you are and how much your addicted to it. run 3 to 5 days a week. spread out your rest days. like every other day. I run 5 days a week, my rest days are friday and sunday. I now run 30 - 40 miles a week.

My wife, started running too and at first, she hated it. But last Saturday, she ran a 5k and loved it. this week she's been running more then ever and loving it. It may be good to look for a 5k and sign up for it. a 5k is 3.1 miles. train for it. having a goal, will get you to want to run. But when you get to that event, no matter how well you do, you'll be proud of how far you've come and you'll want more.

Good luck, I'm excited for you. I hope you become a great runner. soon people will be looking at you and wondering who's chasing you.

lmaharj

I use to hate running. I could never get past the aches and pains it brought to me.

What got me to start running was a friend of mine. She had passed away from Leukemia and the Leukemia & Lymphoma society was doing a marathon in her honor 6 months from the time I found out about it. Apparently she had volunteered to be a fundraising coordinator for the longest time. Anyhow, I began training for it. It was important to me to do it for her.

I pushed through all the aches and pains until one point during my first run my muscles felt so exhausted that they became numb. For some reason, I felt the need to go faster. And faster. I didn't want to stop. I felt like I could keep running forever.


That's what hooked me. I completed the marathon and haven't looked back. Of course I had surgery and my endurance went to crap. I just started to run again and I'm experiencing that feeling all over again.


All in all, if running is something you're interested in doing, set small goals for yourself. Right now I'm running around my neighborhood and I usually set a goal of running 4 streets then walk 1 street, e tc. Sometimes, I set a new goal of running 5 streets instead. The idea is to not push yourself further than what you can handle.

supercatie18

You probably hate it because it's so hard! I've been there but decided to just do it... now that I'm better at running it's much more fun.. get some good engaging songs on ur iPod to distract you and then push through it! Good luck!

godblessourhome

my philosophy has always been just because God made it so that we can run doesn't mean that we should. lol.

a few years ago, i was conned into starting the couch to 5k program by my sister-in-law (a marathoner). i conned another friend to join me. each week was harder than the last. it SUCKED! we both hated it and vowed that we wouldn't run ever again after completing the program. we completed it in 16 weeks (it's a 9 week program) and ran a 5k race. done! forever...

or so i thought. a few months passed and i started to miss running. what?!? but i hated running. hmmmm. so i started running again, and now i love it. however, my friend has never gone back to running. for me, it helps to have a goal to work towards and i run one race each month.

give it a shot. maybe it's not for you, but you'll never know until you try.

Serenifly

Go for a walk and add running 'sprints' ... like if you go for an hour walk, every 5 minutes add 1 minute of sprinting It will gradually get you into running, and you'll find walking a waste of time! haha