how can I start enjoy running?

Use a program like Run Zombies or Couch to 5k. They will gradually get you up to running. You still might not enjoy it though. Not everyone does. I adore running, but I keep trying to make myself like lifting and have been unable to do so.

The number one key to enjoying running is to not kick yourself when you have to slow down or walk. If you keep it up, those times of needing to walk or slow jog will decrease! Use a beginners running program that includes walk intervals.

I've been using the Zombie, Run! C25k app and really enjoying it. It lets me shuffle through a playlist on my phone, and still get the instructions with the story. I'm a complete novice runner. I also do a portion of my run on trails instead of on the street, and I find I much prefer the part of my run that is trees and squirrels than the part that's cars and houses.

JaydenLindsey420 wrote: »

I'm pretty far into my weight loss journey and still am wanting to accomplish one thing-to be able to run a mile.
Running is very scary to me as it's hard for me to breath since my cardio isn't really up to par as i mostly focus on lifting. How can I start training to run a mile and actually enjoy the process? any tips?

yes, i absolutely use to hate it. Now i use it as my greatest escape i plug in my favorite songs and just let my feet carry me wherever they may go. i also try to go to a park or by my house has hills &&what not so the scenery is quite nice and something to leave all my troubles in the dirt so to speak. hope this helps (:

dewd2 wrote: »

If you can't sing while you run you are going too fast.

I can't sing when I'm sitting on the couch relaxing, can't imagine running will make my caterwauling any more palatable.

JaydenLindsey420 wrote: »

Running is very scary to me as it's hard for me to breath since my cardio isn't really up to par

Slow your pace and use some kind of plan to train against.

Couch to 5K is a fairly gentle introduction to running, so worth a try.

If you're running to fast it's going to be hard work. Run at an easy place and just enjoy it.

Hey, running isn't for everyone, but almost everyone can run. It is a question of motivation and knowledge.

Once upon a time, I hated running. It took a long time for that to change, and ironically, I ended up coaching novice runners for the Running Room Franchise. With the right company and motivation, running can become quite enjoyable and rewarding... even if its just for the euphoria you feel after the run.

Here are some ideas which may help and helped me;

1. Run Clubs\Running Stores - Look to your local running store and see if they offer a Learn to Run or 5K program. These often have scheduled runs with people of like abilities. Once you commit to run a course, you are more likely to show up. If you have a group encouraging you to do it... so much more powerful. I've met many of my best friends coaching these types of clinics. Runners are a very accepting group and everyone is welcome (at least at my Running Room)
2. Talk test - most novice runners start out by running way too fast (and inevitably end up injured or discouraged). When you are starting to run... run at a pace that you can hold a conversation. That's all. If you can still talk, you're doing it right (and we aren't talking about speed training, or chasing down a Kenyan). Most of your runs should be of this kind of pace (about 80% of them).
3. Plan for Success - Set some goals, and make a commitment. Short term, medium and long term goals and make them realistic and attainable. Most novice runners start with a 5K race (I was an insane exception and ran a Full Marathon... ah good times ) There are numerous plans out there that will help you achieve your goals... Jeff Galloway, Hal Higdon, John Stanton, Couch to 5K etc... all are great programs.
4. Rewards - Treat yourself for meeting goals... new shoes? a nice bag? Some new workout clothes? But reward yourself. Remember that you just lapped everyone who was sitting on the couch!
5. Buddy Plan Running is an individual sport with a group mentality and is more enjoyable when done with friends. If you have a commitment to meet your best friend for a 2 mile run every Tuesday and Thursday... you're more than likely to keep each other accountable. Grab a coffee afterwards as a way to reward your efforts.

Feel free to add me as a friend or PM me if you have any questions,

Cheers,

@JaydenLindsey420 Finding the music that makes you enjoy running is key. I'm not a major Taylor Swift fan but her 1989 album makes me run better. I don't know the science behind this but the music is key. It helped me go from 5k to 10k and LOOK FORWARD TO IT. I swear

I'd add that lots of people get a bit ONE TRUE WAY (tm) about how to enjoy running. For me it's a question of finding what motivates you to want to run in the first place, and I'd echo the point above that it's not for everyone, but give it a fair crack. To me that fair crack is completing C25K and then reviewing how you feel. That's 90 minutes per week for 9 weeks, so not much commitment.

I started running because I needed to lose some weight, and running was the easiest exercise to fit into my schedule as I was doing a lot of work related travel. Throw a bag in the back of the car, and pick hotels I could run from.

Once I finished C25K I found that I was enjoying the headspace, at the end of a day I spent time on my own, sorted through the stresses of that day, had a bit of a think about what was coming up, or just zoned out.

I'm a solitary runner, so the idea of running with someone else and chatting for that time is anathema. Equally, others find it motivating. That said, I enjoy races. I do a half marathon about once a month, with a couple of marathons planned for this year, that's a whole different thing.

Some people enjoy music, others enjoy audiobooks. I do use music for speed sessions sometimes, but for most urban runs I'll use audiobooks or run without and just one out. For most of my long sessions I run on tails, nothing but me, trees, birds and animals.

You have to find your own way.

KatsCradle wrote: »

Interval training 3x a week & you'll run a mile in no time

Followed by on the couch nursing an injury. Slow and steady is the key. Nothing more until you can run much more than mile.