I Found Another Person Who Hates Running, and I’m Not Surprised
When I started running 20 years ago, I felt embarrassed and out of breath. I recently met someone who shares similar feelings. Madeline Holcombe, a colleague who writes wellness stories for CNN, recently started taking up running. She finds it tedious and boring, and feels like she’s failing at it because she’s slow and out of breath.
Despite being a former competitive dancer and knowing the health benefits of running, Madeline struggles to make it enjoyable. I can relate, having felt the same way when I started. But with time, I learned to make running enjoyable.
Some people prefer running solo, while others like logging miles with a partner or group. You may find that you enjoy a combination of all three. I’ve tried different approaches, from running with friends to solo runs with music or podcasts.
Music can be a great distraction while running. I used to create playlists to pass the time, and later used music apps to find new songs. I also listen to podcasts, audiobooks, and even movie audio tracks while running. If listening to music keeps you entertained and distracted from the un-fun of running, go for it.
Running outside can be just as enjoyable as running on a treadmill. I’ve run through parks, trails, and even in heavy rain or snow. Running with a friend or group can also be a great way to build community and accountability.
When starting out, it’s normal to feel slow and out of breath. But with time and practice, you’ll improve. It’s essential to focus on the small wins and not get discouraged. You can try alternating running with walking to help beginners.
My advice is to be zen about your pace. If you’re running with others, find running buddies who match your speed. In races, you’ll be grouped with runners of similar speed. Remember, there’s no need to be fast unless you want to be.
If you’re inspired to start running, but don’t know where to begin, try these tips from the founder of the Couch to 5K program. Always consult with your physician before starting any new exercise program. And remember, you can just start running.