Running. Like everything good for you, it’s no fun. Every day, hundreds of women drag themselves off the sofa and miserably pound the grey pavements of Britain, silently cursing their own conscientiousness in the matter of physical health and wellness. Some women, on the other hand, love running. They see it as rejuvenatory ‘me time’ that energises them and – somehow – sets them up for a cheery and productive day. Annoying though the latter kind of woman may be, all runners secretly wish they could achieve that kind of attitude. Well, while a complete transformation into a bright and optimistic gym bunny is probably impossible, there are some ways you can make running a bit more enjoyable for yourself.
Finding the Right Gear
You can win half the battle for a happier run in the shops. The right running clothes will make your run much more comfortable and may also improve your performance (which can be surprisingly motivating, even if you couldn’t care less about your personal best time). For a start, invest in good-quality, comfortable running shoes that will cushion your feet, support your arches, and keep pressure off your joints. Specialist running socks can keep your feet dry and help to avoid blisters, while a pair of lined women’s running shorts can help you avoid the dreaded chafing.
Also, make sure that you have the appropriate upper body clothing for whatever the British weather decides to throw at you – and don’t forget a strong sports bra. Taming the bounce can have a big impact (pun not intended) on how you experience your run.
Setting Realistic Goals and Pace
If you’re not used to running, it can be very discouraging at first. Don’t worry – it’s completely normal to be unable to run for more than a few seconds at a time if you’re brand new to it. There’s absolutely no shame in starting with brisk walking and building up to running a few steps, then a few steps more, and so on.
Don’t be put off if people zoom serenely past you on the track without breaking a sweat. They’ve probably been running for decades – and they were probably just as slow and sweaty as you to begin with. So, set your own, achievable goals and celebrate when you reach them. Remember, it’s not a race (apart from the times when it is – but don’t worry about that for now), it’s about creating a healthier lifestyle that works for you.
The Power of Distraction
Lots of people rave about the mental clarity that comes from running, but for many people it’s just plain tedious – especially if you focus on the physical labour part of it. One of the best ways to combat this is to find a good distraction. Find an audiobook that you can lose yourself in, load up an engaging podcast, create an energising playlist – whatever works to keep your mind occupied can take the drudgery out of running.
Make It a Habit
This can be the hardest thing to achieve, but it is also the most critical piece of advice available: make running part of your routine. After some time, your body will start to crave the feel-good chemicals (endorphins) that are released during exercise (yes, they really do exist!). If you’re really struggling with motivation, try to schedule your runs around a daily activity you enjoy. For example, you could run to your favourite coffee shop and treat yourself to something you really enjoy. Yes, you might undo all your hard work in terms of calories burned, but you’ll also help yourself get accustomed to running, which will pay off in the long term.
Changing Scenery
The same loop in your local park will quickly become monotonous. So, change your route frequently. Discover new local areas or fresh nature trails. It’s a hackneyed old saying, but it really is true – a change is as good as a rest.
Enjoy It
This may sound counterintuitive, but find a way to enjoy running for running’s sake. Notice the world around you, appreciate the rhythmic tap of your feet, and enjoy the feel of your body working at its optimum. Enjoy the solitude if you’re alone, or the camaraderie if you’re with others.
Remember – as a reluctant runner, your primary goal is not to win races or break records. It is to create a healthy habit that you can maintain in the long run. So, clear out your old running clothes, treat yourself to some new gear, and hit the road at your own pace.