I consider running to be a struggle and for many people it does not come naturally; Some people may run half a mile and be dead, others may be able to run 8 without any training. I believe most people can become better runners and will if they set their mind to it. I have a couple tips for running and take what you will, but my tips will help you fight and do that extra mile or two you've been meaning to do!
1. My first tip is expect pain and discomfort: running takes a lot of will power and this is why athletes often say mind over matter; if it was easy everyone would do it and be world class athletes.If you refer back to my Chrissie Wellington post under inspiration, she says "I prepare to suffer more than I have ever suffered." (As always, be careful how much pain you let yourself endure and if it's extremely painful and unbearable walk or take a break. If the pain continues once your done running and doesn't go away you may want to consider seeing a doctor.
2. Have a good series of inspirational quotes to tell yourself and good music! Music is a great distraction from the sweat and pain however you need more than that. I believe one also needs a series of quotes to tell him or herself. I like to say, "one step in front of the other," recite my a,b,c's with each letter being the first word that comes to my mind (so a=apple, b=bat, c=cat, etc...), "I'm worth this, you're doing great trev," the contestants on the biggest loser (if they can do what they're doing at 350 pounds I can do it at 175-180), and of-coarse Chrissie Wellington.
3. Change your running route. Variation in routine and location can inspire you to run faster and further because the environment is different and exciting.
4. Find a running partner. Inspire each other on your runs.
5. Ignore every one that is watching you! They do not matter! As long as you are moving you're probably doing more than they are. This is especially crucial if you might be overweight, not very fit, or just not a natural runner, because you do not want to let others discourage you. One must consider every step forward is one in the right direction toward getting your health on track or in check. Ignore all the people that may see you, what are they doing for their health? They aren't out there running with you! (they're probably watching tv) Also, in terms of worrying about the super athletes you see, you'd be surprised to know they are probably encouraging you on! I have talked to many an athlete at the gym who will be like, damn, I wished I worked as hard as that guy/girl is, and that guy/girl is working out hard yet also slightly overweight.
6. Make sure you know you're worth it! Tell yourself you deserve to be healthy and look good. Everyone should have that right and you should as well!
7. Don't be afraid to walk! Walking is great for your health! You may not be able to run 20 minutes straight without feeling like you're going to die and therefore you can alternate between walking and running! Run one song, walk a song, and eventually you'll be able to run the full 20 minutes.
8. Pick a location and run to it! Once you get there you have to get back somehow! haha, that means you either got to run or walk back, so there's some extra-exercise in your day! You enjoy that runner's high!!!
Either way, the key is don't be afraid to try. No one is going to make fun of you for running or walking (partly because they know they should be running/walking/going to the gym as well)! if on the slim chance someone does, ignore them, they aren't worth associating with and you're still worth the work you're putting in!
If you have any other tips or comments please post them!
Have a great day!
Stay Strong,
Trevor
Picture from http://www.vermontcitymarathon.org/page.php?pid=1&pname=home
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