Scared of running in public!

shelton_1992
shelton_1992 Posts: 6
edited October 16 in Motivation and Support
Okay, so this might sound weird, but I'm terrified of running in public! It's not that I'm worried about how I look when I'm running, I guess I just don't like the thought of people watching me - I never really get that feeling in the gym because I know everyone else in there are exercising too so are focussed on themselves.... But I hate it when I'm trying to run outside!

I don't know if anyone else gets the same thing but I miss going on a jog on a regular basis so would appreciate any advice that'll help get me back out there!
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Replies

  • lizard053
    lizard053 Posts: 2,344 Member
    I totally know how you feel! I'm very self-conscious when I run. I hate the fact that others get to see what I'm doing. Here's the thing I have to tell myself, no one who is busy outside is going to notice me run by. Even it they do, they won't really be thinking anything horrible about me! More than likely they will think maybe I should do that, or wow, what dedication. Or something impersonal like that. Just because I'm afraid of what they may be thinking, doesn't make it true. Once I got that idea through my head (that the world truly doesn't revolve around me and even though someone sees me they more often than not will not even really notice me), I've been able to run outside. It's taken a long time, but it helps!

    Edit - I wanted to add, when I was seeing a counselor about my issues (more than just this), she stated that fear was a very self-centered thing to think. I was rather offended at first, but I've come around to see her point on it!
  • JoeyTajzai
    JoeyTajzai Posts: 1,198 Member
    I know how you feel, I'm not that uncomfortable with it then women, since you have boobs and it attracts a lot of attention. Just run at a decent time in which no one else is there.
  • wisebadger53
    wisebadger53 Posts: 382 Member
    If you want to do it, then do it. Tell the voices in your head that you are awesome, because you choose to get out and exercise instead of doing nothing like those people watching you. Do what makes you happy, and forget about the rest of them!
  • montana_girl
    montana_girl Posts: 1,403 Member
    I was the same way when I started running, but I soon realized that everyone is involved in their own lives and probably didn't even notice me. And if I did happen to pass another runner or walker, they always smiled, nodded or gave some type of positive recognition. Always made me feel like I was part of some group than non-runners know nothing about.

    So, just get out there and do it. You will be so glad you did! :smile:
  • cathyL11
    cathyL11 Posts: 46 Member
    I used to hate running in public so I would go early in the AM just as it was getting light. Fewer cars on the road -- hardly any exhaust pollution and I finally found a really good bra that felt like a straight jacket and held my "girls" in really well (Enell from herroom.com) Try to dress down and wear a baseball hat so that you don't draw attention to yourself. Listening to podcasts or music can help distract you so that you are less self conscious BUT you must be careful because you can increase your chance of having an accident with a moving vehicle if you're not paying attention.:flowerforyou:
  • lacroyx
    lacroyx Posts: 5,754 Member
    I started at 400+ lbs. was I worried? sure. did I wonder what others might say, point or laugh? yep. I eventualy stopped caring and got over it. my health was more important than what others may think.
  • mybiketrip
    mybiketrip Posts: 239
    I was the same way when I started running, but I soon realized that everyone is involved in their own lives and probably didn't even notice me. And if I did happen to pass another runner or walker, they always smiled, nodded or gave some type of positive recognition. Always made me feel like I was part of some group than non-runners know nothing about.

    So, just get out there and do it. You will be so glad you did! :smile:

    What she said ^^

    Start running in public and join the club! I've actually met people through my running in public. I would see them on the road a couple times and we'd exchange smiles, nods, and whatnot. Then I'd see them in a coffee shop and it's easy to start a conversation because you know what you both have in common... Running!

    Also, most people who see runners on the road either respect them or are jealous of them. Also, to be honest, I only notice runners because I'm a runner. Before I started running I wouldn't notice them at all.

    Good luck with your running! Feel free to add me and ask running (or biking) questions!

    -Peter
  • bcf7683
    bcf7683 Posts: 1,653 Member
    I used to feel weird when I ran around my college town- there was always tons of people on the sidewalks at all hours of the day.... But then I got to thinking "How can they think anything bad of me, at least I'm out here running my little a** off while they're walking their way to the bar or a restaurant".
    When I'm driving down the street or I pass someone on the sidewalk who is running, even if they don't look like a seasoned marathon runner, at least they're out there trying, and I think "Good for them."

    That kind of thinking gave me way more confidence.
  • donyellemoniquex3
    donyellemoniquex3 Posts: 2,384 Member
    here's my take...

    they're there to see YOU make YOURSELF healthier and the only reason why they're out there is because of YOU and to cheer YOU on no matter what they're really doing.
  • ThisisMiss
    ThisisMiss Posts: 187 Member
    I kind of relate to how you feel. I don't actually mind running in public on my own, but I hate running in public with my DD in her stroller because I am using a regular stroller and not a jogging stroller. I know it's silly, but it really gets to me!
  • InTheInbetween
    InTheInbetween Posts: 192 Member
    I was the same way when I started running, but I soon realized that everyone is involved in their own lives and probably didn't even notice me. And if I did happen to pass another runner or walker, they always smiled, nodded or gave some type of positive recognition. Always made me feel like I was part of some group than non-runners know nothing about.

    So, just get out there and do it. You will be so glad you did! :smile:

    ^^ I frequently tell myself this!
    I run with headphones and just get into my music. Music is kind of a buffer i guess. I'm convinced that people are staring and making fun but with my music in I don't have to hear it and kind of just run in my own little world. In reality I'm sure people couldn't care less! I have to remember that I'm running for ME and it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks. Even if I do look funny when I run (which I do lol) WHO CARES?! I CONSTANTLY have to remind myself of it but it's enough to get me out the door and running. I've never once regretted a run even if I have to steel myself to get it done! :smile: :flowerforyou:
  • lastchance2010
    lastchance2010 Posts: 494 Member
    GAH...haven't ran in public..well..I did a couple weeks ago but in the wee hours of the morning. I personally thought it was harder on my knees...or I could be tricking myself into thinking that because I was terrified! But I'm a treadmill jogger/walker. I did get stuck running on the tready which there are probably 8-10 against the wall and there I was surrounded by these men that were jogging and well I have to say...they kept me jogging longer than I anticipated just because it was such a rush...like...running in a group..LOL :heart:
  • Akijade
    Akijade Posts: 210 Member
    Screw haters. Acquire miles.
  • stay615
    stay615 Posts: 4
    I've been told I look like a T-rex when I run. Fine make fun all you want, I'll be in better shape than you. You just keep on going, you're out there getting healthier with every step.
  • Leanne3552000
    Leanne3552000 Posts: 395 Member
    I hate running when there are people around too. I find first thing in the morning especially on sunday is the best time to go because there is no one around.
  • TrishB1954
    TrishB1954 Posts: 17
    Just tell yourself that you are running faster than they are - this from someone who at full pelt can run a mile in 9m45s - my best 5k time is 30m 32s but when I was moaning once about my lack of speed, a fellow club member said - it doesn't matter how slow you run, you are still beating the people on the sofa. - and it's so true - and the more you run, the better it gets - I am still slow but I will not let myself be put off by the thought of people watching me. Other (& much better) runners are always supportive - surround yourself with positive thinking and run!
  • caramammal
    caramammal Posts: 147 Member
    will people look at you? - maybe
    will they remember what you looked like? - probably not
    will they think about you once you've run by them? - probably not
    will they think about you tomorrow, or later in the day? - nope
    will they even care that you're running - nope
    These people will barely even remember you passing them by, so should you be bothered what they think? - nope!

    I run and have seen hundred of other runners on the roads..can I remember any of them? NOPE..because, why would I want to?

    Go and hit the tarmac and enjoy :)

    xxx
  • Fridaydalek
    Fridaydalek Posts: 28 Member
    Screw haters. Acquire miles.

    That should be on a T Shirt!
  • lulabellewoowoo
    lulabellewoowoo Posts: 3,125 Member
    My daughter and I run outside. Here are the thoughts that go through my head when I'm in a car and I see people running...

    "I'm jealous, wish that was me right now." or "Wow, that's impressive, the way they are out there on a day like today that is (windy, hot, cold)". or "It is extremely impressive that a person of that (height, weight, age, physique, hair length, eye color, etc) is putting forth that kind of effort on a road/path that gives more challenges than a treadmill."

    I don't think I'm the only one that appreciates rather than feels disdain for physically active people. You might be surprised how many people you actually inspire.
  • CShepherd91
    CShepherd91 Posts: 44
    I feel a little self-conscious too. The only exercise trousers I've got are a size too small, and a bit tight on the bum - which means the jiggle is there for everyone to see (and its quite a sizeable *kitten*). I'm fortunate that I live next to a river, and the only people that tend to go down there are dog walkers - pretty private, so that's my walking/jogging spot. The footpath alongside it is 4 miles long, and I just can't jog that far yet - so I have to cut through onto the main road to get home again. While I'm jogging along there, I just blare up my music and just pretend that there are no cars on the road, and I haven't just over-took some really fit guys.

    Pretend for long enough, you'll believe.

    I think you just need to get out there. Find a spot which is relatively quiet and just go for it. You'll soon gain a bit more confidence! :D
  • mmk137
    mmk137 Posts: 833 Member
    Screw haters. Acquire miles.

    That should be on a T Shirt!

    totally agree.

    imo if that is your only reason for running outside, it's kinda lame.

    just do it. no one will judge you, and if they did, it would be 'gez i wish i could do that'.

    go outside your comfort zone, that is where the magic happens
  • chipper15173
    chipper15173 Posts: 3,981 Member
    just do it. i felt the same way. thinking what will people think seeing a 240# old woman out running (slow pace at that), that the kids would be yelling from the school buses. i just figured i wanted to do it. so i just did it. now i don't care. when i pass other runners or walkers i get hellos or i get thumbs up. it's for my health not theirs.
    feels so good. go for a run. i just did.....
  • dasboogs
    dasboogs Posts: 2 Member
    Just know most of the people you pass are busy doing other things like driving, trying to supervise kids, pets, focus on their own exercise. I used to run at odd hours to avoid people like really early in the morning or after dark. Granted the places I ran were always populated by other runners at the hours I went but there were less people standing around doing nothing. Get some good tunes and get lost in your journey of seeing where your feet will take you and enjoy it. Don't worry about what others might be thinking. For all you know they're probably thinking, "I wish I could be as awesome as her running like that."
  • RedFeffer
    RedFeffer Posts: 25 Member
    I can certainly relate to this post, and I have a few suggestions that really helped me take control of my running experiences! First of all, try running in the evening. I love running in the dark, when everyone's windows are all lit up, putting them on display instead of you! LOL I always worry about my bottom shakin around too, so I wear good running pants, and always a nice shirt that covers up that part of me that I like to hide. Also, listen to fabulous tunes!! You will get absorbed into the music and your own rhythm, that you won't care what's going on around you - ESPECIALLY around 18 mins (that's my magic number) when the adrenaline kicks in and I start feeling like a flying gazelle leaping tall buidlings in a single bound!!!! Ohhh wait.. sorry - just ran away with myself there... hahahahaha.... The truth is, every single time I see someone running, no matter waht shape, I think "GOOD FOR THEM!", and then I wish it was me running, and it very often excites me to go home and tie up my laces and get out the door. Treadmill running is good for cold or rainy days, but getting out in the fresh air, the changing scenery and the changes in terrain that are so good for your body all make it sooo worthwhile. Outdoor running is rewarding, don't deprive yourself of an experience that just might become your favourite activity! :)
  • lastchance2010
    lastchance2010 Posts: 494 Member
    Screw haters. Acquire miles.

    That should be on a T Shirt!

    YES!!
  • InTheInbetween
    InTheInbetween Posts: 192 Member
    Screw haters. Acquire miles.

    That should be on a T Shirt!

    YES!
  • christenwypy
    christenwypy Posts: 336 Member
    I feel the same way.
  • kissedbythesunshine
    kissedbythesunshine Posts: 416 Member
    I feel the same way. Anxiety mixed with the fear of tripping over a crack in the sidewalk while on a busy street. Jogging by past a red light where cars are lined up stopped and are watching you, etc. Finally put on some loud headphones and faced my fear yesterday. I can't run long at all so I have to alternate jog/walk. I just focused on the tunes and before you know it I was back home again after almost 4 miles. If anyone else if having this problem I dare you to give it a shot just one time. Pick a time where less people are on the road (safety first of course) and just give it a shot. Focus on you not the people around you.
  • mangrothian
    mangrothian Posts: 1,351 Member
    I used to feel that way, but my fear of stepping foot in a gym was worse at that stage, so running on a treadmill wasn't an option for me; there was no other choice. Run in an area where you feel safe, and if you can, at a time with less people around until you feel more confident.

    This might be an odd one, but I used to find I didn't notice people looking at me if I couldn't see them. When I lost enough weight that my glasses started slipping down my face all the time, I just ran my familiar routes without them, and because the faces of the people I ran past were blurry, it never seemed like they were looking at me. It actually made me relax somewhat.
  • cyndlynn
    cyndlynn Posts: 9 Member
    That's totally me! Lol! I used to go "for a walk" at night when it was dark, but when no one was around, I would run! I still can't bring myself to jog or run in public!
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