Strategies to Convince Yourself that Running is Fun
Doesn’t running kind of suck? I always try to convince myself that “I LOVE RUNNING” but let’s be real, it’s not that fun. However, running is one of the better cardio options out there, and it feels amazing and badass when you’re done. Summer running obviously offers more to look forward to, but if you’re someone who typically dreads running, how do you get yourself to run a few times a week on a treadmill? You have to come up with strategies. Here are a few of mine that actually seem to work (for me).
- Put it in your planner as a to-do, all nonchalant-like. So: buy groceries, do laundry, run 5 miles, have that movie night with the random neighbor you just met, etc. If you act like it’s just one of those things you “have to do” instead of some epic feat you are dreading, you might not stress about it all day.
- Watch a show while you stride it out. If your gym is cool it might have a variety of archived shows, or plain ole television. The other day I was fortunate enough to land the movie “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” and it was a very motivating to run faster and faster the more freaked out I got. Or you could do something where you walk fast paced during the show and run during the commercial breaks or vice versa depending on your skill level. Or if music floats your boat, turn on your Rack City Bitch Pandora station.
- Make a rule that you have to get to 3 or 4 or whatever miles a day. Now, you don’t have to run this straight. Let’s say you made a rule that you want to run 3 miles a day and you’re just not feeling it that day. Okay, that’s perfectly fine! Run the first mile, and walk the second two. Or alternate between sprints and walks—1 minute walk, 2 minute sprint until you get there. Trust me, getting to your goal even if it involves walking will make you feel a thousand times better than if you just didn’t attempt it at all.
- Find a partner! I don’t have a running partner at the moment, but man, working out is so much easier/enjoyable if you have a bud.
- Smile. Sing out loud (without getting kicked out of the gym). Laugh about the fact that you hate what you’re doing but you’re still doing it. You’re crazy! Also appreciate the fact that you CAN run. Many people have knee problems or joint issues and can’t run like you can.
- If all else fails and nothing works to get you to run: girl—-you were not meant to run. Who cares! There are so many other cardio options that you can do. UXF, Crossfit, group classes, cycling, the stair master, the elliptical (just make sure you push yourself on these or it’s not doing anything) and the list goes on. However, you never know until you try. There is something extremely rewarding about finishing a run or lengthening your distance on the treadmill. It can’t hurt to give it a go!
These are just some of the strategies I use to get myself to put in some miles. The whole endurance thing is interesting, because it is so individual. Some people can run for miles and miles and miles and others can’t even get to a mile. Don’t stress it—find what works for you, but push yourself because you can. I would love to hear your strategies for running so feel free to drop me a line @andreaboehlke and I can try them out!
XO – Andrea
Hey, I’m Andrea Boehlke and I’m a Wisconsin gal who is trying to make things happen in New York City. I am best known for being a two-time Survivor contestant (my second season airs Feb 13th, 2013) but I am also working as an online host for UGO.com and Fit or Flop season 2. I am also a blogger and writer, currently doing fashion reviews for Nu-mode magazine. I love talking about girl things, whether that be new health foods, working out, boys, makeup or fun adventures. I love to interact with new people so shoot me a tweet @andreaboehlke or follow my blog at www.dredresays.wordpress.com. I love peanut butter, farm animals and believe in unicorns.
Great tips! I need to find some motivation for running, too. Thanks for the post, and welcome to OAM!
This is a great list. I hate running, but I feel that its cardiovascular benefits are undeniable, so I just do it to the point where I can stand it – a mile or two a day.
Also, sorry for totally spamming with a million comments. I just found this site and now I am overwhelmed by my love for it.
Haha! You’re not spamming one bit. The whole reason for our site is for ladies to share their experiences and comments too
Keep them coming and thanks for stopping by!
I am loosing training for a 5k. I have just been running intervals for the time being on the treadmill. I cannot wait for it to warm up so I can run outside.
Right?! I cannot WAIT to start running outside again. The treadmill gets so redundant sometimes and is hard on the knees. Nothing like fresh air! Congrats on training for a 5k!
thanks. The treadmill is rough on my hips. I feel like an old lady after I run.
great post! i completely agree that running with someone makes all the difference! I have much better runs on the days i’m running with my team versus running alone! It adds a little friendly competition to push yourself more
I was running regularly last summer and then work/life/excuses/laziness got in the way and I totally stopped exercising. Starting up again is so hard – that’s the time when my hatred for running is strongest. I know that if I can push past it though, I’ll love it again. Thanks for this list – let’s see if it’ll get my ass in gear again!
Haha, yeah—starting up is the WORST. I finally got on a kick though—just know that once you’re in your groove it feels great.
You my dear are being nominated for the Versatile Blogger Award. Link back to this post for the rules and list of nominees: http://ramblingsofabipolarwoman.wordpress.com/2013/02/24/its-award-time, including yourself!!! Keep blogging and thank you for sharing and for the support you have shown my blog. <3