Will I ever like running?!
meganprather
Posts: 8
I have started once again on a weight loss journey. I have tried many different ways to lose weight and the most successful so far was a diet pill. Of course I gained all that weight back otherwise I wouldn't be here. I have noticed that most people I have seen in my life successfully loose weight and keep it off have been those who count calories and exercise. The main thing that they say to do is run but let me tell you I HATE it! I just ran for the third day in a row and I hated every second of it. All day long I dread the time when I have to bring myself to start running. I understand now that there is no magic pill I can take to lose weight (not without great health risk anyways) but I just wish there was another way. Does anyone else have this hate relationship with running? Any tips you can give a girl to not despise it so much?
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Replies
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I hate running, plain and simple. I got 2 week 5 of couch 2 5K and I just had it. If I am going to work out, I want to do something that at least makes me happy not frustrated. I just stopped doing it all the time, and instead I do circuit training most of the time. But if I do use my treadmill I start out running for about 5-10 minutes to get my heart rate up then pump up my incline and walk at a brisk pace. There's is nothing wrong with NOT liking running, it's not for everyone. Thank God.0
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I dont HATE running but it's definatly not my workout of choice. there are so many other things you can do to burn calories that is easier on your body than running. So if you really dont like find something you do like. Liking something will make working out more fun and more likely for you to stick to it. for me that something is biking. cant get me off my bike. I love it so much it doesnt even feel like working out.0
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It's kind of funny because I ran track and cross country in school but now I find running so boring. There are so many other ways to work out and burn calories though. You don't have to run. I have taken up step aerobics and I'm having a blast. I look forward to working out every day, and at the end of my hour, I have to make myself stop so I can go on about my day and get things done. There's tons of ways to exercise without having to run. I wouldn't recommend doing something that you hate so much, because you are more likely to stop. Find something you love. Dance, circuit training, tae bo, step aerobics, etc. The possibilities are endless! Good luck!!
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question, do you run on a track, treadmil, or outdoors?0
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I run outdoors around my neighborhood.0
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hmm maybe find a track? That is my favorite place to run anyway
HATE the treadmil but can run 6+ miles if I am on the track 0 -
That is a really good point about finding something I do like because I will end up quitting. I was thinking about that today as I was running. There is no way I am going to keep this up if I hate it so much. It will be so much easier to get discouraged. I was thinking about maybe finding a fun workout video like Flirty Girl Fitness or something. Had anyone tried any of those?0
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me me me!!! I have flirty girl fitness! The cardio is fun, the entire routine is only about 10 minutes so I have to keep replaying it until I am satisfied. The abs and booty workout is so great though. You really feel it working! I don't do the workouts too often because I have other things I like to do but I definitely like the flirty girl fitness. It helped me get motivated to workout again.0
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I used to HATE running also... but I wanted to be a runner. I wanted to be one of those people who run 10k for fun and want to try a half marathon. I also dreaded every running day and would have to psych myself up for it. So let me just tell you, it gets better. Your body gets used to it, and eventually you will CRAVE it! Don't get me wrong, there are SO many fitness programs that I like better, but I'm at the point now that if I don't get to run for a week, i absolutely NEED to for my sanity. Stick with it - don't do it every day, and set a goal distance/time for every week to reach.0
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me me me!!! I have flirty girl fitness! The cardio is fun, the entire routine is only about 10 minutes so I have to keep replaying it until I am satisfied. The abs and booty workout is so great though. You really feel it working! I don't do the workouts too often because I have other things I like to do but I definitely like the flirty girl fitness. It helped me get motivated to workout again.
OKay I am definitely going to try that then! I have heard good things but never got around to getting it.0 -
I was clocked by a truck riding a bike to work. Back aint so good. 16 year old daughter takes me to the community fitness place 18 months ago. Never seen the running track on the upper level. she shows me her routine, goes easy on me. do this exercise, do that exercise, run a lap. Each lap was pain, I could barely make it, and sooo slowly. 2 more exercises, another lap. Ugh. Silly old man wants to keep up wit fit daughter, She doesn't invite me to do anything and I was so happy to be doing SOMETHING with her.
Hate running. never jogged. Could barely do many of the exercises.
But I kept going back every other day or so. The pain in the back gradually lessened. I think in about 2 - 3 months it went away altogether. But what made it more enjoyable was the tunes on the ipod. Cheapy little ipod and some favorite tunes, only turned on on the while running the track, NOT during the exercises.
Just run a little, walk, rinse, repeat. It slowly gets better. Turn on, tune in, trundle....
I have a treadmill too, needed it when I blew out two ligaments in 1994, but, I like going somewhere, even around in circles!0 -
I used to HATE running also... but I wanted to be a runner. I wanted to be one of those people who run 10k for fun and want to try a half marathon. I also dreaded every running day and would have to psych myself up for it. So let me just tell you, it gets better. Your body gets used to it, and eventually you will CRAVE it! Don't get me wrong, there are SO many fitness programs that I like better, but I'm at the point now that if I don't get to run for a week, i absolutely NEED to for my sanity. Stick with it - don't do it every day, and set a goal distance/time for every week to reach.
See I am with you on there. I want to be one of those people who love running. I want to look forward to it but I just find it to be torture. When I see people running I get so envious because I just want to have that same drive that they do! I think you are right about not doing it every day, I'll do it three times a week for now and see if it gets any better.0 -
Its always the starting thats the problem. I will nag and moan and protest. It's not too bad when you actually start doing it and I always feel great afterwards. I don't join the gym because the actual traveling there puts me off. So as soon as I put my trainers on, step out the house, I just jog without thinking.0
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I was clocked by a truck riding a bike to work. Back aint so good. 16 year old daughter takes me to the community fitness place 18 months ago. Never seen the running track on the upper level. she shows me her routine, goes easy on me. do this exercise, do that exercise, run a lap. Each lap was pain, I could barely make it, and sooo slowly. 2 more exercises, another lap. Ugh. Silly old man wants to keep up wit fit daughter, She doesn't invite me to do anything and I was so happy to be doing SOMETHING with her.
Hate running. never jogged. Could barely do many of the exercises.
But I kept going back every other day or so. The pain in the back gradually lessened. I think in about 2 - 3 months it went away altogether. But what made it more enjoyable was the tunes on the ipod. Cheapy little ipod and some favorite tunes, only turned on on the while running the track, NOT during the exercises.
Just run a little, walk, rinse, repeat. It slowly gets better. Turn on, tune in, trundle....
I have a treadmill too, needed it when I blew out two ligaments in 1994, but, I like going somewhere, even around in circles!
I love that your daughter kept you going! That is awesome. I don't listen to music when I run and I think you got something there because I can see that being a nice distraction and I bet I could find some good music to motivate me. That is amazing that your back pain went away after a couple months of running. My dad has problems with his knees (mostly from being overweight) maybe I can recruit him to run with me.0 -
Make sure you pick songs that pump you up and get you motivated. I have chosen the wrong music in the past and it did the opposite of motivate me. It made me want to sit back and chill out lol.0
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I hate running, always have. However, it is a serious calorie burner. It does get a little easier with practice but I still can't say I enjoy it. Definitely play some music. I run on a nice hike/bike trail so at least the scenery is nice. I've also been alternating 3 min run with 1 min walk which has help be build my endurance. My best is 5.2 miles doing the alternating thing. I'm slow though so it takes forever. I've signed up for a 10k so I'm not just running for running's sake which I think helps. There's a purpose to it now and I've got a goal to improve a little each time.
I have friends who get the runner's high and get withdrawals when the don't run. I just don't get that at all. I run because I feel I have to, not because I want to.0 -
Yea, I hate running for the sake of running.
Give me a ball to kick around or shoot at a hoop and it makes running a lot more fun.0 -
I used to hate running, but honestly it's great. get the right music playing, and feel ur body work and burn off them calories! i love it! 0
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I always wanted to run but just didn't think I could do it.
But.... I've been doing C25K for about 8 weeks now and am just loving it! I ran for 20 mins non stop last week which absolutely blew me away, I really had no idea I was capable of doing that.
I have an app on my ipod which tells me when to walk and when to run and I like the fact that there is a structure to follow and that I know I don't have to do one thing all the time. I also listen to audio books when I'm walking/running which keeps me interested. I have one book that I'm only listening to when I'm doing this, so I want to get running so I can keep going with the story
However, if you just don't like running, don't do it! There are so many different things that you could do, find one that grabs you or motivates you (for any reason, even it if seems silly, like me wanting more of my story!) then you will be more likely to stick with it.0 -
Rubybelle that is an awesome idea about the audiobooks! I think I will do that when I get onto the longer c25k runs!0
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I hated running also, I think everyone does when they start out. Now I go for 40 minutes every day, and i LOVE it. I couldn't stop if I tried. I'm not sure exactly why you hate it, but I'll tell you why I did. It's hard, but that's never made me dislike any other kind of exercise, the reason I hated it was because of my shorts. I know that sound ridiculous, but I'm gonna go ahead and say what nobody else does. Your shorts get all hiked up on your thighs (and mine aren't massive or anything - it just happens!) so you're trying to run, but you're yanking your shorts down, and people are looking at you and it sucks. Then you're tired and feel awkward and you just give up for the day. I bought under armour spandex a few years ago (the kind that are the medium-long length) and now i refuse to hit the treadmill or street without them. They don't budge, it's awesome!
also music is SO important! I couldn't go a solid 20 minutes without some great jams.
Hope this is mildly helpful - if not I just went into depth about my thighs for nothing haha. enjoy.0 -
I was asking this same question about 3 months ago!
I started by going for a walk/jog (intervals) with some friends/boyfriend in places that I found relaxing/liked.
I didnt worry about going fast, meeting a goal.. just enjoyed it! I made a playlist on my ipod full of my favourite songs that
make me feel happy and energetic! One day I realised that I was **shock horror** enjoying my run, and had done a few km without even realising! I dont go fast... I sweat and puff like a train.. but I had fun!
Now running has become my time to escape, get rid of some stress and just be outdoors. Just dont put pressure on yourself to be perfect... find your style and love that!0 -
I also love running and if I don't go (feeling under par), I get so agitated lol: I run outdoors, along the river (City of London, UK), during my lunchtime and on Saturday in my local park. I don't notice the scenery much as I'm zonned out with my music, this for me is really important, as you literately run in pace with it, so recommend you have a good mix. Saying that, running isn't for everyone, for me I hate running indoors on a treadmill! but give me the outdoors and I'm happy!!!
As mentioned, don't try to run every day, do every other day, don't try and go quicker than your body wants! also try the walk/run/walk approach and build up to see if you get a better routine that way! in any event good luck and if you don't like it, give it up and find something else you like as it's no point forcing yourself to do somthing you don't like!.....try Zumba if you like to dance, heavy workout, but you feel excellent after and the harder you push yourself the more calories you burn, I love this also and do a class on Tuesday evenings0 -
No. In a word. If you reaaaalllly don't like running, you are not going to suddenly love it. I also HATE running with a passion! I am sure it is something to do with my technique but I don't care enough to get it checked out as I have found a way of working out that works for me and that I enjoy. Be varied with your workouts and keep your body feeling challenged (and sweating!) and you will be fine.
I tend to power walk for 35mins on the treadmill on incline 8.5 and speed 7 and burn around 450 calories. When I sneak a peek at the runners next to me who are running hard for similar amounts of time they burn only HALF the calories. This is what worked for me. Try it and see if it works for you. I have to warn you though it is tough, I started off lightly at incline 6 and speed 6 and worked myself up from there.
Good luck!
I also think its a balance thing, I am so scared of falling off the treadmill and hurting myself!! lol0 -
I'm totally with you (hate running, want to be one of those people who loves it). I jog/run on the elliptical and listen to my ipod. The ipod definitely helps. Also, I do Turbo Jam 4-5 days a week and only run 3 days. That helps, too!!0
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I am a runner. Pick a goal and work toward it, each milestone will encourage you. If you just go running without any intention then you won't like it. I have a goal to accomplish with running every single day.
Also, find different types of runs to do, repeats, tempos and long runs. You will likely find one you like more than another. I do all three because it is necessary, but really like doing speedwork/repeats.
I became addicted to running after I finished my first race...nothing can compare to that feeling.
In the end, if you really hate it then find something else. You won't keep it up if you hate it.0 -
No. In a word. If you reaaaalllly don't like running, you are not going to suddenly love it. I also HATE running with a passion! I am sure it is something to do with my technique but I don't care enough to get it checked out as I have found a way of working out that works for me and that I enjoy. Be varied with your workouts and keep your body feeling challenged (and sweating!) and you will be fine.
I tend to power walk for 35mins on the treadmill on incline 8.5 and speed 7 and burn around 450 calories. When I sneak a peek at the runners next to me who are running hard for similar amounts of time they burn only HALF the calories. This is what worked for me. Try it and see if it works for you. I have to warn you though it is tough, I started off lightly at incline 6 and speed 6 and worked myself up from there.
Good luck!
I also think its a balance thing, I am so scared of falling off the treadmill and hurting myself!! lol
I have to disagree. I also dispised running. Hated it! But I gave it an honest chance and now I am loving it. I agree with the others that you need to give it more time. You may find after two weeks you still hate it, but then at least you know you gave it a fair shot. And they are all right, good music is a must! I love running to the beat! And also, I dont go very fast, try not to worry about speed. Good luck!0 -
I always wanted to run but just didn't think I could do it.
But.... I've been doing C25K for about 8 weeks now and am just loving it! I ran for 20 mins non stop last week which absolutely blew me away, I really had no idea I was capable of doing that.
I have an app on my ipod which tells me when to walk and when to run and I like the fact that there is a structure to follow and that I know I don't have to do one thing all the time. I also listen to audio books when I'm walking/running which keeps me interested. I have one book that I'm only listening to when I'm doing this, so I want to get running so I can keep going with the story
However, if you just don't like running, don't do it! There are so many different things that you could do, find one that grabs you or motivates you (for any reason, even it if seems silly, like me wanting more of my story!) then you will be more likely to stick with it.
I was just thinking about doing an audio book. I love to read so I think that would probably help a lot. Great idea!0 -
I am a runner. Pick a goal and work toward it, each milestone will encourage you. If you just go running without any intention then you won't like it. I have a goal to accomplish with running every single day.
Also, find different types of runs to do, repeats, tempos and long runs. You will likely find one you like more than another. I do all three because it is necessary, but really like doing speedwork/repeats.
I became addicted to running after I finished my first race...nothing can compare to that feeling.
In the end, if you really hate it then find something else. You won't keep it up if you hate it.
I really do hope that I can say this one day. I LOVE the idea of running I just HATE doing it. I am going to give it more time for sure. I can't give up this time. 0 -
I always wanted to run but just didn't think I could do it.
But.... I've been doing C25K for about 8 weeks now and am just loving it! I ran for 20 mins non stop last week which absolutely blew me away, I really had no idea I was capable of doing that.
I have an app on my ipod which tells me when to walk and when to run and I like the fact that there is a structure to follow and that I know I don't have to do one thing all the time. I also listen to audio books when I'm walking/running which keeps me interested. I have one book that I'm only listening to when I'm doing this, so I want to get running so I can keep going with the story
However, if you just don't like running, don't do it! There are so many different things that you could do, find one that grabs you or motivates you (for any reason, even it if seems silly, like me wanting more of my story!) then you will be more likely to stick with it.
I was just thinking about doing an audio book. I love to read so I think that would probably help a lot. Great idea!
Podcasts are quite good too.0
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