I HATE Running!

Of course you can be both!
If you want to become a "runner" then I would recommend the couch to 5K plan. I absolutely love the RunDouble app for Android (I think it is also available for iPhone). There are several plans on that app such as the couch to 5k plan, 5k to 10k, half-marathon training and the 5k improver plan.

I used to be so afraid to run outside and now I prefer it to being in the gym!

If you don't like running, have you considered doing different Cairo like some HIIT workouts that don't involve machines? FitnessBlender.com has some fun, challenging stuff.motherwose, I'd start with Couch to 5K, either outside or on the treadmill, your preference.

There are ways to learn to love running, but I feel like I repeat myself way too many times here, but here it goes again: I do not run. At all. I speed walk and walk high incline intervals on the treadmill and I alternate with the elliptical at high intensity and I have people ask me all the time if I'm a runner or how much I run. None. You can get in great shape by walking with speed and intensity.

But, if you want to learn to love running, please listen to the advice already given. Either way, just moving is going to make a difference. Be consistent!

Get a dog! Hahaha....well in all honesty I think that is the only reason I enjoying just running to run, otherwise find something you actually like. You don't HAVE to run to get in shape.

If you hate running, don't run! There are other cardio options - kickboxing, cycling, find a good HIIT workout, etc.

OR if you want to give running a shot - I'll second the c25k program, which made a runner out of me at the age of 43, after hating and avoiding the process most of my life. But it's something I can do almost anywhere, I felt like giving myself a challenge, so I went for it. And I like it! I'm pretty much a 3-5 miler, no desire to run a marathon, or even a half at this point, but I like being able to get out and grab 3 miles when I want to.

To avoid boredom, get outdoors as much as possible and stay off the machines. I don't live in a super cold climate, but I get out there even in freezing temps, fog, rain (although I will avoid a complete downpour and lightning), etc. In summer, I'm out the door early, usually at dawn, to beat the heat. It's peaceful being out so early and watching the sun crest the horizon.

Another boredom buster - download the Zombies, Run! app - they also have a 5k trainer version! A story plays out in your headphones with your own playlist of music, and during the songs there are times when you have to run faster to avoid the zombies! It's a genius app, and very entertaining, and certainly not boring. Nothing makes me bust out a sprint like the sound of zoms breathing in my ear! You also have the option to turn the zombie chases off, so you still get the story, and each run is a "mission" where you're out to collect supplies, or whatever. Check it out online.

Don't do it. It's bad for you.

I hate running. So I don't run. Find something you don't hate , and do that instead

I thinking ot really love running until I got to half-marathon distances (13 miles). At that point I became aware of the endorphins, the "runner's high," and I was totally hooked. Before that I liked running because of the long-term effects it had on my body and allowing me to eat as much as I wanted, but I did not yet love running. I loved being outside. I loved feeling like I could run forever. I loved the sense of being my body and being in such good shape, the sense of well-being and connectedness, creative thinking. Unfortunately, I did too much running and needed major surgery on my foot and ankle, which ended my running. I now get all of the same benefits from long-distance swimming, but being in a pool is boring compared to being outside.

If you hate it, don't do it.

Life's too short.

get on google and see if your town has a running group. They are pretty common, there is usually a mix of experienced runners and beginners so don't feel intimidated. Make some friends there. Having a buddy to talk to takes your mind off things and a little healthy compitition can do wonders.

Running outdoors helps me with the boredom factor.

If cardio is the goal maybe try something else? Cycling class is my favorite cardio. I could go everyday(and often do.)

Running outdoors makes a huge difference. I use the "Zombies, Run!" app which intersperses your playlist wit ha gripping post-apocalypse story and you can add in zombie chases to make you go faster!

I have to agree with a lot of the posters here...running outside is so much better than in the gym. I used to despise running but started slow and have grown to love it! I never personally used the couch to 5k but know a lot of people who have and love it. Another tip that works for me is a good playlist with music that makes me want to keep going. However, like others have said, it may not be your thing so find what works for you.

I don't think anyone else has suggested it, but I enjoy listening to sermons while I run. Check with your local churches to see if they have an app. Sometimes I also listen to talk radio. Music becomes annoying to me after awhile and having the ability to focus on a stimulating topic distracts me.

Also, to switch things up try fartlek techniques. I've downloaded a HIIT timer app, and will do a minute (or whatever time) of sprinting, followed by a 30 second walk, and then next time do a sprint with short strides, and then long strides, etc.

Running with a buddy always helps to as before you know it you've gabbed the entire time and then suddenly you're done!!