I wish I was a runner.

wildhehr2

I suggest "Run Your Butt Off." It's a book from Runners World, and it's the same slow principle as the C25K. The best part, for me, was the idea that your run can be slower than your walk. Give yourself a month or so, and if you don't stop hating it (note I did not say start loving the run), then try something else. Running is great, but it's not the only thing.

hollowdoll

I'm the same way - have tried to like it, given up on it, then wished I loved it because it's something you can do just about anywhere. So just yesterday I started the Couch 2 5K running program. Supposed to ease you into it and have you running a 5k without stopping in two months. There are online programs and phone apps you can download to give you the info.

So I'm giving it a shot!

http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

thanks for the info! I, too, am a running novice looking for a good place to start.... so thanks again ;D

gleechick609

The C25K app and program works great

Or you can set a time to get out on the pavement. Start with 20 minutes. Start with 60 seconds of light jogging followed by a couple of minutes of walking. Do that 3 times a week. Every week, jog 30 seconds more and walk a little less until you can work up to 20 minutes of jogging straight. Remember to always start with a warm up walk and cool down walk (both 5 minutes each)

QueenJayJay

Thanks everyone! I wouldn't have posted this if it's something I didn't intend to do. I don't feel I "have" to. I truly want to get into it, I just need to find the motivation. These are all wonderful suggestions and I really appreciate them! I am going to try the C25K and getting into a running group. Thanks again!

brandysilvers

Two years ago I was just like you. I wanted to like running but I really, really hated it. Then, my company offered 4 days paid vacation to anyone who ran in the Marathon they were sponsoring.( Nothing like free time off to motivate you) So I signed up paid my money and then I realized what big commitment I had made. Running for me was like drinking beer to my peers… it’s an acquired taste. I won’t tell that it was easy or quick and after I finished the marathon I swore I would never do another but 4 months later I missed my long runs. I haven’t looked back since then. Some things that helped to make my training successful were: Hal Higdon’s training plan, an ipod shuffle, some good running shoes (Asics gel nimbus) and the fact that I had already paid for the race and wanted to finish. Good luck on your journey, I hope you come to love running as much as I do.

kmturtle3

The reason I run is BECAUSE I hate it. Seriously. Its not really "fun." Its hard. No matter how much I do it, its still hard. I still have to fight with every fiber of my being to not just stop. And I have run a 1/2 marathon. But that's what makes it so worthwhile for me. I have to focus everything I have on doing it - no room in my brain for other worries or stresses, just running. So the act itself is pretty crappy, but once I get done, I feel incredible... strong, clear-headed, and relaxed. Its amazing, and keeps me coming back for more.

xdaysbingefree

I'm a runner, and I don't really think that "fun" is the word that I would use to describe it. Running hurts, but I have learned to love that feeling. The reason that running is "relaxing" for me is because it is a physical release for my stress.

Nothing else can compare to the sense of accomplishment I feel after I get back from a run and my body is exhausted yet energized at the same time.

I would say start out slow and try to build up to it. If you try to run too far/too fast, it won't be enjoyable at all

starross87

running outside is always more enjoyable to me than running on a treadmill...after a while, i start to feel like a hamster if i stay on the treadmill too long!

tam120

It probably sounds silly, but I download audio books to my smartphone and listen when I run. It occupies my mind and I get a good story to boot,

Sure, I still want to stop a lot of times but I know how good it is for me and how good I'll feel about having done it so I keep going. I entered a half marathon which cost me $80 so that's motivation as well, I can't really afford to waste that $. I want to be able to say I finished a half marathon which is quite an accomplishment in my book. Maybe you need a motivational goal.

BTW... once you get to where you can run for > 10 mintues straight you'll realize that the first 10 minutes is the worst, which is quite unfair when you can't yet run 10 minutes.

scottb81

It doesn't really become enjoyable until you do it awhile and get in enough shape that it doesn't hurt any longer. For me, this takes about four to six weeks. Until then, you just have to endure the training with the endpoint in sight.

TinaDay1114

I've been "running" off and on for about 15 years, and honestly, I STILL have a love / hate relationship with it. I started doing it b/c it pissed me off that I could never run a mile without wanting to die -- and what still keeps me going is just being pissed off that I can't run that NEXT mile, or that I've never done THAT distance yet, or that I'm still THAT slow. And when I actually accomplish a little bit more, I feel like SUPERWOMAN.

Or maybe it's just like that old saying: "I like hitting myself in the head with a hammer, 'cause it feels so good when I STOP." I always feel good AFTERWARD.

And yes, MUSIC is a must.

I keep repeating the advice a long-term runner told me once -- even lifelong marathoners say that the first 2 miles ALWAYS sucks, every time, every run. Even they don't "LOVE" every minute of it. Even their bodies are saying, "WTF are you DOING this for???" We're just living for those moments when it (almost) feels EFFORTLESS. Notice I said A L M O S T. :flowerforyou:

foolinme

This is great! I was just saying that I wish I knew how to run. I am going to look at some of the suggestions from the other members and see what works for me. Thanks for posting the topic!!

joemomma3d

I never dreamed i could run !! I was overweight (still am but not as big) I have had 2 major surgery's on my right knee and now have arthritis in both knees . BUT I run !! i don't run long distance or very fast but i love it. I started off by walking faster and faster, then a very slow jog. I would walk for 2 min jog for 1 min. I did that for as long as i could ( usually 30 - 40 min) Now I can warm up, jog at a 5mph pace for 4 min and walk fast for 1 min and i do that for 30 - 45 minutes. I never jog more than 5 min at a time. i love it !!

Heaven71

Try as I might, I just can't make myself get into it! All of you running gurus, do you have any tips on how to start out (slowly), and make it enjoyable? People talk about how fun, relaxing, etc. it is, and all I can think is, "I'd rather get a pap smear." Help me out, here!

I was like this and just recently found my passion. I started out walking on an incline and increased it until I could do a 10% incline at 3.5 for at least an hour comfortably, then started running a few minutes and walking a few at intervals until the walking interval becomes close to nothing.

I watch my favorite shows while on the treadmilll, it helps me stay on and keep focussed.

Just started really running about 1.5 months ago and ran 6 miles last night. the soreness is wonderful!!

C25k is a great program thouhg I didn;t use it.

Heaven71

I've been "running" off and on for about 15 years, and honestly, I STILL have a love / hate relationship with it. I started doing it b/c it pissed me off that I could never run a mile without wanting to die -- and what still keeps me going is just being pissed off that I can't run that NEXT mile, or that I've never done THAT distance yet, or that I'm still THAT slow. And when I actually accomplish a little bit more, I feel like SUPERWOMAN.

Or maybe it's just like that old saying: "I like hitting myself in the head with a hammer, 'cause it feels so good when I STOP." I always feel good AFTERWARD.

And yes, MUSIC is a must.

I keep repeating the advice a long-term runner told me once -- even lifelong marathoners say that the first 2 miles ALWAYS sucks, every time, every run. Even they don't "LOVE" every minute of it. Even their bodies are saying, "WTF are you DOING this for???" We're just living for those moments when it (almost) feels EFFORTLESS. Notice I said A L M O S T. :flowerforyou:

Best advice so far, though I listen to talk radio when I have headphones on; entertainment is a MUST.

The first 2 miles do suck and you feel like you just can't do it today but at about 2.5 it's like yeah, I can run 3, then I think...I feel great, I can run another. I don't like to stop until I am ready. I always feel like I must run 3, atleast...just to know wherther I am ready to go beyond that.

kit548emt

That's the big thing for me. I don't always enjoy it while I'm running but I always LOVE the way I feel after. I feel like I could do ANYTHING! Looking forward to that runner's high has helped me kind of learn to enjoy the run. But it seems like I always have to force myself to take that first step out of the door. I've also come to appreciate the days when the weather is so nice outside, I want to be outside, so that kind of helps me.

jomiley23

I feel ya. I'm not one either. And I have always struggled with asthma, so it wasn't something anybody pushed me to do. I always had to take it easy as a kid.

Fast forward ___ years, and asthma control medication is so much better than it was then. I use my inhaler twice before going out. And then I use the "rhythm" method ... meaning I breathe rhythmically to keep calm and help pay attention to how I'm feeling. Breathe in for 3 steps, out for 4. Then as I got more winded and ran longer, it turned into in on 2, out on 3.

Last night was my first time running with music. I never tried it before because I didn't want it to mess up my rhythm. But it actually helped. I wasn't so fixated on how I felt and how I was breathing, which actually made it easier.

Although it feels like my legs are made out of lead by the third or fourth interval, I agree with what I read on someone's blog yesterday: When the only decision you have to make is "right or left?" running can be pretty freeing for your mind. Great time to clear out the noise and buzz and hum of all the things you've been plugged into all day. You may not enjoy the running, but you can enjoy the after-effects: weight loss, endorphin rush, sense of accomplishment, skinny jeans.

athensguy

I think the item that will make the most difference in your outside exercising is a heart rate monitor. If you get one that comes with a GPS, that would make it even better. I think the reason most people think running hurts is because they are still going to too fast, even if they think they slowed down. A heart rate monitor will beep at you and let you know when you need to slow down so you're not just guessing.

I don't run with music or a training plan or any of that kind of stuff, but I do use a Garmin with a HRM. Running got a lot better for me after I got the Garmin. I started out with C25K, and even that would have been more fun if I had had a HRM.

BrandyontheRun

Good God I love Running!! It's so freeing! I find at any rate. lol. But I would advise you to start with interval training, do a run/walk program. Listen to your favourite tunes. Find one song that motivates you and play it if your mid run and feeling ready to quit. Good Luck!!

NoExcuseTina

I used to hate it...but I kept at it...now I do not hate it and even miss it when I can't do it 3 times a week...just keep pushing yourself! Use intervals...start with jogging 30 seconds / walking 2.5 minutes...then 1 min jog / 2 min walk...keep increasing jog time and decreasing walk time! You can do it!

karah0011

I would rather do anything than run...I find it extremely boring. Cycling is much more enjoyable!!! Good luck!

HauteP1nk

I am like you... I have never really liked running. However, I recently joined a beginner class - Learn to Run clinic. It starts off at such a slow pace that really makes it easy for anyone!

The schedule is so gradual...first week you are only running for one min, walking for one...second week you run for 2, walk for 1...etc. Makes it great! And before you know it you have endurance...

Week 1 1:1 2 km
Week 2 2:1 2 km
Week 3 3:1 2 km
Week 4 4:1 3 km
Week 5 5:1 3 km
Week 6 6:1 3.5 km
Week 7 7:1 4 km
Week 8 8:1 4.5 km
Week 9 9:1 5 km
Week 10 10:1 5 km

Right now I am on week 5 training... I am finding it kind of hard at this point, but I am going to push thruogh it! LOL

myltlisa24

i wish i was a runner also..but i have mvp stopping me, and I am impatient..what I need to do is try the couch to 5k...I am still active (kickboxing, and walking)...it might help for me to try it, but i don't have anyone willing to jog with me.

berv0009

When I was in HS - I HATED running. And I was a 3 sport athete (swimming,bball, golf)

When we had to do dryland training for swimming I would DIE doing a mile. And I was in the best shape of my life endurance wise -- Swimming is instense.

ANYWAY - fast forward 4 years of college and 40 lbs later. I decided I would do a triathlon. Running required. I decided it was all in my head. 1 mile. Oouch. 2 miles OUCH I HATE THIS. 3 miles OMG YOU MUST BE JOKING. But then I got used to it. Then it felt good afterwards. So then I signed up for a 10k the next year. Then a half marathon the next and then I did another. This year I will do my first marathon. My body somehow learned to love it! And seriously, I DESPISED IT. So I guess for me I just had to push through the difficult and the hate, and eventually I didn't hate it? Crazy.

Oh, and music is a must for me as well. And I prefer outside runs! Even when it's cold I live in MN and like to get bundled up and run in the winter.

ADMOCT

the biggest thing is to not start out to fast either. alot of people decide to start running and just go and they go to fast or to hard and can not last. run what feels like ridiculously slow at first because you will be able to go for a longer duration.

tangiesharp

bump

roadrunner32

I hated running more than anything else but I started slowly after joining a group. I was finishing last all the time and it was awful. But I kept going and finished a marathon with them and again I came last but I was over the moon! This year we are training for another marathon and we have new recruits and guess what? I'm not the last anymore lol
Good luck I hope you get into it!

TinaDay1114

I feel ya. I'm not one either. And I have always struggled with asthma, so it wasn't something anybody pushed me to do. I always had to take it easy as a kid.

Fast forward ___ years, and asthma control medication is so much better than it was then. I use my inhaler twice before going out. And then I use the "rhythm" method ... meaning I breathe rhythmically to keep calm and help pay attention to how I'm feeling. Breathe in for 3 steps, out for 4. Then as I got more winded and ran longer, it turned into in on 2, out on 3.

ME TOO. I had asthma pretty bad until high school, and it took me a few months of running to realize that half the battle for me was getting that rhythmic breathing down. Good for you for getting there, and working through it.

bayertablets

I use the "rhythm" method ... meaning I breathe rhythmically to keep calm and help pay attention to how I'm feeling. Breathe in for 3 steps, out for 4. Then as I got more winded and ran longer, it turned into in on 2, out on 3.

Last night was my first time running with music. I never tried it before because I didn't want it to mess up my rhythm. But it actually helped. I wasn't so fixated on how I felt and how I was breathing, which actually made it easier.

This is me too. I started C25K a couple weeks ago and have been on Week 1 since then. I tried Week 2's run on Monday, but couldn't finish it. Counting breaths really helps me. And while I do listen to music when walking/jogging, I find that I don't really "listen" to it, but it's in the background as I focus on how good it feels to get my heart rate up, or those last few seconds in the jogging section of my run, or other things from the day that I think about to de-stress. Start slow and don't be too hasty to go faster or longer in the beginning. You'll get there.

mtnmchgrl

I was NEVER a runner. I downloaded the Couch to 5k app on my phone & completed it this summer. I run on my treadmill and usually watch TV but I find I can go faster/longer when I'm listening to music. I'd also rather have a pap smear than run, but it's a quick, easy way to burn calories and get your cardio in.

I agree w/ the running club suggestions. The one in my town meets several times a week and there are always opportunities to do morning/evening/weekend runs + 5k, 10k sign ups.

Good luck!