I recommend running to a lot of clients. It’s brilliant for head space, it releases a range of hormones that make you feel mint and it’s fantastic for burning calories and cardiovascular fitness. However, normally, when I ask a client “what do you think about running?” or “have you tried running” a guard comes up… “I hate running” and “I can’t run”, are the usual responses.
The reason for this? Normally, when people run ‘in the real world’ it’s often a fast-paced run. You might be late for something, your child might be about to walk somewhere they shouldn’t. Which means you end up sprinting – causing you to get out of breath as you’ve gone as fast as you can! Which then leads you to believe you can’t run.
Don’t get we wrong, I have some very fit clients who just dislike running – and that’s fine! You don’t have to run! But dismissing it before even trying it is something else entirely. Injuries, specific goals, imbalance or instabilities may also mean running may not be the most appropriate exercise for you, but don’t let the reason you don’t do it be fear and lack of self-belief!
Ready to give it a go? Take a look at the few simple steps below to build belief and momentum:
1. Run a suitable distance. Not 5km, not 2km, not even 1km. Run the equivalent of to the end of the street and back – 100m.
2. Run at the right pace . The number one reason that I come across for people finding running hard is pace. Try a pace that means you can still answer someone if they started to talk to you.
3. Attire. This one is for women really, but get a supportive bra. No real explanation required – if you know, you know!
4. Doing it. Having the intention unfortunately probably won’t swing it. Book it in and commit!
Try these steps to get your foot in the door – and if you find it gives you a good feeling and “wasn’t as bad as I expected” then gradually increase the distance.
You never know if you don’t try!
LG Fitness 