How You Can Learn to Love Running
By Orla, April 17, 2015
Running is one of those things where you either love it or hate it – but it doesn’t have to be that way. It’s no secret that running is an amazing form of exercise, it’s just not always fun.
It’s not going to easy to learn to love running but if you follow these steps it genuinely is possible!
1. Rome wasn’t built in a day, don’t dive in
This article may be about running, but this tip involves zero running. If you’re not a seasoned runner or exerciser, start out with less strenuous forms of exercise like walking, cycling or hiking. Start small and increase the distance until long walks are no longer a challenge. Then you will be ready to graduate to running.
2. Go for short distances and flat ground
It’s all too easy to set yourself up for failure when it comes to running, but just take your time and start off nice and easy. Keep the distance short, keep your pace moderate and most importantly, don’t undertake any daunting hills – running on flat land is much, much easier.
If you’re struggling, remember that it’s okay to stop running and walk for a minute, as long as you’re moving forward, you’re making progress.
3. Mix it up
Try not to follow the same path every time because it will get boring and repetitive. You’re less likely to fob your run off if there’s an element of curiosity about where your run will take you.
Running outside is a great option because there’s plenty to see while running and there is nothing like fresh air. But if it’s miserable outside, instead of blowing off your run head to the gym and hit the treadmill – you may be glad of the change of scenery.
4. Everyone needs a running playlist
Upbeat, energetic tunes are a must for runners. There’s nothing better to get the blood pumping and motivate you to work harder than a good, upbeat song. Take a look at the top 20, or use 8tracks and Spotify to enjoy other people’s exercising playlists.
5. Take a friend with you
A lot of people find running more enjoyable and find that the time goes by faster when they have a running buddy. You might be too out of breath to talk to them but the companionship alone makes for a more fun experience.
6. Download some great running apps
There are lots of apps out there that can measure your running efforts and encourage you to keep at it. MapMyRun, Couch to 5k, Zombies, Run! and Cruise Control are some great apps to make running that bit more fun and more informative.
7. Learn about the health benefits of running
Knowing all the good that you are doing to your body can really help to maintain that beginner’s motivation. Running gets your blood flowing throughout your body and brain, releases feel-good endorphins, burns calories, helps you sweat out toxins, tones up your legs and core, builds strong bones and improves heart health.
8. Take your rest days
Remember that you’re only human and we all have bad days and some days you are just not in the mood. That’s okay because you should take at least 2 rest days anyway to let your body recuperate from all the activities of the week. Don’t set unrealistic goals like “I’m going to run 7 days a week” or “I have to run X km this week” if you’re only a newbie to running.
