Runners, when does running become enjoyable?
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I started to enjoy it when I got rid of those stupid running shoes with inch-thick outsoles and huge heels (virtually guaranteeing that I heel-strike and end up like everyone else with shin splints and wasted knees) and started running in minimalist running shoes. That day I said goodbye to recurring tendonitis and collapsed arches.
I started cycling between my Nikes and a pair of five-fingers and have since moved on to Merrell Barefoots and VivoBarefoot Achilles. Now I'm running 10Ks and half-maras completely pain free.
I agree 100%. yes I know they are not for everyone, but my Barefoot Merrell have made such a difference. Love them!!0 -
On a quiet trail that smells rich and earthy. On a snowy night while snowflakes gently fall all around you. On the treadmill with the incline turned high, music turned up and intervals challenging enough you're impressed your heart can beat that fast, loud and strong.
When you get so caught up in it you forget how hard it is.0 -
I can't say I ever enjoy running while in the act, but the after of effects of running and also lifting are two of the most positive mood altering substances I know.0
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This may sound silly but running became fun when I decided to think of it as my play time rather than a workout.
Having said that, I've been running consistently for a few years (ran my first 5K 5 years ago and am know running half-marathons and am a wanabe triathlete) and there are still days that are better than others. Even the most experienced runners will have good days and bad days and the trick is to push past the bad days (it's usually mental) and keep on putting one foot in front of the other.
^^^^^ This......or a run on a quiet morning and coming across deer feeding beside the path.On a quiet trail that smells rich and earthy. On a snowy night while snowflakes gently fall all around you.0 -
For me week 3 and 4 were the hardest and I started to actually enjoy the running somewhere around week 6 after the 20 minute run. It's still hard work, but it doesn't suck as much as week 3 and 4, AND the feeling of pride makes it amazing. I love it!
This is coming from someone that always hated running and never thought they could be a runner. Just a few short weeks ago I struggled to finish the 1 minute run, now I am happily doing 28 straight minutes.
Oh, and go slower. No really, go slower.
I'm really hoping to get to a place where I can run for 28 minutes! That would be amazing! But about going slower, well, seriously, I log it as walking, I'm so slow. For example, my C25K program gave me a 51 minute training session today, and according to my phone's GPS, I went 3 miles. Seriously. Granted, it's a run/walk program and I kind of wonder about the accuracy of the GPS, but still.0 -
I HATE running. Hate, hate, hate it. However, I LOVE what it does for me more than I hate it.
Regarding OP's pain issues I would recommend, as others have, that she make sure she has proper shoes and to also look into one of the several running form [groups/disciplines/not sure what to call them]. I read up on Chi Running and it saved me from tons of pain.0 -
I use to hate it in the armed forces, because I always viewed it as a choir. Now a days I would be out of breathe and hurting but my mind would be super relaxed, and if I have good music it is even better.
So when you stop seeing it as a choir is when it becomes enjoyable.0 -
The author has a YouTube channel called Chi Living with a lot of good short videos. This one is good for a description of form:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8egf6aXgH0&feature=youtube_gdata_player. It's on another guy's fitness channel, but he has Danny Dreyer on to teach the form.
The big changes for me was making sure my knees and feet pointed forward (I tended to point my toes out) and not over-striding/heel-striking. I also used a metronome app on my phone that I played over whatever music I was listening to in order to get a quicker cadence. Don't worry about your pace as much as your cadence. Your pace will increase as you build stamina and add distance.0 -
I liked it alright when I first started, but it was definitely difficult for me. I liked it a lot after I ran my first half marathon. I loved it after a year of consistency and a marathon, and then I loved it with an unholy passion once I started trail running.0
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I love the challenge of running and the sense of accomplishment.
I did a leg of the Belfast marathon 3 years ago and it was such a wonderful experience.
I feel I do better at shorter distances and this time around I will be focusing just on that.
I am on week 5 of c25k and the other morning I was out at 515am,it was cold and dark and the blue moon was shining down on my run and I felt the love!I really do enjoy it but not everyone will.
Hope it gets better for you!0 -
Personally, it never has.
I've been running for about two years now. I've run a number of races, including two half marathons and I've coached three people through the couch to 5K program.
I hate running. I dread it every time I have to head out there. I've only kept running this long because I like races. I like the atmosphere and fun of the environment of races. If I could do races without ever running, the world would be a perfect place.
But I am currently counting down the days to my last scheduled race. I have three more runs and the race and then I'm finally free. I'll have four entire months of not having to run and I can do whatever cardio or strength workouts I want because I won't be in training for anything.
So if you hate it now, and you've been hating it, it's possible that you will continue to hate it. But I'd bet even money that there is some form of cardio out there that would help your lungs that you would end up loving. So don't be afraid to go find it!0 -
I started to enjoy it when I got rid of those stupid running shoes with inch-thick outsoles and huge heels (virtually guaranteeing that I heel-strike and end up like everyone else with shin splints and wasted knees) and started running in minimalist running shoes. That day I said goodbye to recurring tendonitis and collapsed arches.
I started cycling between my Nikes and a pair of five-fingers and have since moved on to Merrell Barefoots and VivoBarefoot Achilles. Now I'm running 10Ks and half-maras completely pain free.
I agree 100%. yes I know they are not for everyone, but my Barefoot Merrell have made such a difference. Love them!!
How weird, I am different! I had developed pain in my knee running in "barefoot" shoes. I treated it as "runner's knee", and the pain got better until i started increasing my miles again. I finally switched to more supportive shoes, and I love running now! Plus, i seem to be trail runniing a lot, and the stability shoes prevent me from rolling my ankles in gravel...
Good luck! Definatley check out a LOCAL running shoe store where they fit you and watch your stride when you test jog. :drinker:0 -
What isn't clicking with Chi Running? I feel like after I read the book a couple of times and watched some YouTube videos, my running really improved when I tried to incorporate the form he recommends and using a metronome to get my turnover quicker and my pace steadier. When I first started out, my knees were hurting every time. But I never have knee pain anymore and I'm up to around 3-4 miles three times a week.
I have also started with Chi Running. I have had knee pain, shin splints, calf pain, just plain TIRED legs. I got new shoes fitted at a running store, tried shin exercises, got an x-ray for stress fracture that was negative-
Then Chi Running was recommended to me by a friend. I'm not saying it is the be- all end all, but now that I am concentrating on my running form and using my core and thinking of running as a "practice" just concentrating on it and the freedom it is giving me while also making sure my whole body- breathing, focus, relaxation, is in place, running became 100 percent more enjoyable. I run further, don't breathe as hard, and am less tired at the end.
So in my humble opinion here is my two-cents' worth!
1. Go to a running store that does a pace analysis and make sure you aren't under or over pronating and get good shoes
2. Explore some running literature that will help you get your whole body working for you so you can relax and enjoy your run.
3. Walk when you need to- you need to give your body a break and listen to what it is telling you it needs.
4. Know that running IS hard work for all of us- and that the best part of the run will be at that 5K finish line!
Good luck to you- I just signed up today for my first 10K so will be training right along with you
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I started to enjoy it when I got rid of those stupid running shoes with inch-thick outsoles and huge heels (virtually guaranteeing that I heel-strike and end up like everyone else with shin splints and wasted knees) and started running in minimalist running shoes. That day I said goodbye to recurring tendonitis and collapsed arches.
I started cycling between my Nikes and a pair of five-fingers and have since moved on to Merrell Barefoots and VivoBarefoot Achilles. Now I'm running 10Ks and half-maras completely pain free.
Yes to the minimalist shoes - have been injury and pain free since changing to them (although they don't suit everyone). I have Mizuno minimalist shoes and love them - and they changed my enjoyment of running too.
I've just run my 3rd 10km (was only running 5kms as of 6 weeks ago and have just gone ahead distance-wise in leaps and bounds since then), and it's just such a great feeling and sense of achievement - it's still not 'easy' - but I CAN do it, and with lots of shorter runs in between it's getting easier and easier. Running in my first 10km "event" next weekend 0 -
1. Get a gait analysis done and buy the proper shoes for your gait. It doesn't cost much more, and it really helps. I used to have problems with shin splits, and have had no injuries since I started wearing the right shoes.
2. In my experience, the first mile always sucks. After that, the pains start to go away and it gets enjoyable. It does start to such again after mile 20.
Good luck0 -
I've been running regularly for about 10 years. Sometimes it still sucks. A lot of the time, after I warm up for a mile or so, then I'm good to go. And then there are times, especially when I'm trail running, that it's so much fun I don't ever want to stop.
But even the worst run - when I'm done - feels better than not having run at all.
This.
I feel like a machine usually about 45 minutes+ into a good run. I love the way I'm pounding along with music in my ears, rhythmic breathing, sweat pouring... I love it. When you get in that aerobic groove pace that you feel like you could keep up forever. That's the spot right there.0 -
Running is like a bad marriage. You end up getting hurt, you drink a lot, and you keep coming back for more.0
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On reaching the barn water faucet that I forgot to turn off. That's the only time I run.0
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I'm a really slow, bad asthmatic runner who started about 9 months ago, about 3 months after quitting smoking. I NEVER dreamed I could run even 5 minutes and I still find it grueling, painful, and grossly sweaty most of the time.
But there is something about the way I progress (extremely slowly in my case) that keeps me going--there's nothing more thrilling than looking back over my logs and seeing starting out with being able to run only 1/2 a block to getting to the point where I ran my first mile straight through. It gives me a crazy sense of accomplishment that feels great, and it also lets me enjoy a chocolate biscotti or a beer guilt-free afterwards.
The rhythm of the moment and the fresh air/time outdoors have done wonders for my mood and my outlook, and I do enjoy the scenery even if it's just seeing what's going on in my neighborhood that day.
So...I would say it's both enjoyable and torture at the same time!0 -
I posed this same question about a week ago. I got lots of good answers. I'm with you, I'm still struggling, still slow, and can only last about 20 - 22 minutes at a stretch right now. But I'll keep at it. I'm 3 weeks in.
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/1074577-how-long-did-it-take-for-you-to-start-to-love-running0 -
When I realized that the only way for me to enjoy running was to run slow, slow, slow. When I ran slow and didn't worry about my pace (even if it was basically the same speed as a quick walk), I started to realize how freeing it was - how your mind wanders, how you stop thinking about whether your legs hurt, how powerful you start to feel. Over time I went from a 15-min mile to an 11-min mile. I'm still "slow." But I'm burning calories and feeling great, so who cares?
Everyone who hates running but WANTS to like it, I say - run slower.
Everyone who hates running and doesn't want to like it, I say - life's too short, find something else to do.
I wanted to like it, so I found a way, and now I love it. I've done a couple half-marathons and a marathon (slowly!), and the run is my favorite part of triathlon.0 -
I'm not the fastest runner, but I've always loved it. Some people just instantly love running, some take time to find their groove, and some never learn to like it. Take it easy and don't push too hard at first. Don't see it as a grueling punishment and you'll be more likely to enjoy it. I find it's the best, most relaxing stress reliever.
ETA: I wholeheartedly agree with the poster above me.0 -
Its a love hate relationship. Its all about the WANT! Either you want to run or you don't. Running is not for everyone it takes a STRONG MIND-more mental than physical. "STRONG MIND, STRONG BODY"0
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I'm working on a C25K program, and I've just started week 4. I have compromised lung function, but the intense aerobic exercise is making it better-my lung function was up to 83% from 74% at the last office visit! And the extra cardio is definitely making it easier for me to lose weight. So, this has done good things for me. But here's the thing. At present, I really don't like running. It feels grueling. It also hurts my hip and my knee right now, though as my weight goes down that may change. At what point in your training, if ever, did you start to actually enjoy running?
I started to enjoy it when I finished that 20 minute run in week 5. I wanted to pass out, but I felt like a frickin' bad-*kitten*, because I never thought I could ever be a runner.
Same here! I'm in the middle of week 6 and I just want to get out there and do it. As a kid I could not run, at all. I have sports asthma and I was like the worst soccer player. So, I proved the little kid wrong that thought they never could run. And now I am really beginning to actually enjoy it.0 -
There are three times running is enjoyable for me
1. When I am finished
2. When I am so into the run that I forget I am running
3. When I wake up the next morning and feel my body tighter, firmer and lighter
Regarding shoes...go to your local running shoe store and they will put you on a treadmill, rate your stride, see if you are a pronator, etc and tell you the best shoe to buy. You may be tempted to go cheaper online...but don't! Buy local and ask if they have a running group. That is how I started. Now I love running and you know the rest of my story...0 -
Never. Never never never never... I tried it for 2 years, did 2 Sydney City to Surfs, a couple of "fun runs" and still hated it. Get on a mountain bike. It's fun from the start!0
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I took up running in January. Running is a love/hate sport for me. Besides the physical benefits I've gained, the mental challenge of pushing myself each and every time I run has sealed it for me. I feel accomplished each time I've hit a new goal. There's a mental toughness I've developed with running that I haven't found in the other sports/exercises I do.
There's also this great moment when I run when I get in a rhythm and feel like I could run forever. Never lasts long, but worth it every time.
I love trail running. Tracks and around the neighborhood get boring, but running on a trail is so much fun.0 -
If you have pain, your body is telling you that something is wrong. Try Jeff Galloway's Run Walk Run. He trains lots of beginner runners and they never experience pain. After running my first sprint triathlon...my very first race the end of July, I started to re-examine my running being a person like you that didn't and some days still do not like it. I am actually improving my time, going further distances and I am not running through a painful hip or knee. (IT band issues}. You can check it out on his website. His book is an easy read.0
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I was able to enjoy running after the pain lessened and the victory was greater. After c25k I hated running still. It wasnt until I could complete a 5 k with ease and then strived to get my time down or complete a 10k that I really started to enjoy running. Because at that point I didnt feel the pain and i felt like i was trying to accomplish something for me because i wanted to not because i wanted to break down this wall between running and myself0
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I started running a couple months ago...now I'm running at 5 miles an hour for 30 minutes straight. First 15 is the anticipation to make it to the half way point, the second half of the run I literally do anything to distract myself to make it through. I'm hoping to love it one day too, but it hasn't happened yet. But I do feel a sense of accomplishment when I finish and with the diet, I'm dropping weight rapidly. My body is leaner and my heart is so much healthier. I have much more energy. Get so much more done in an day. So I just do it like medicine you don't want to take but have to.0
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