Hate Running? 9 Tips to Change Your Tune

Running reminds you of when your soccer coach made you do laps for goofing off. Or maybe you still haven’t gotten over when your crush made fun of your stride. Whatever the reason, you hate to run. While I’m not saying that running is for everyone, maybe it’s time to drop your preconceived notions of running and give it another try. If you think you hate running, try these 9 tips to change your tune. 

1. Forget why you hated it before.

First off, you have to change your mind to change your tune. Let go of the reasons you hated to run when you were young. Whether you weren’t fast as a child or you slipped and fell and embarrassed yourself in gym class. Leave your past reasoning behind and go in with an open mind. 

2. Set goals.

Just like everything else that you want to accomplish in life, goal setting is so important. How far do you want to run? And how fast? Start slow and gradually increase your running.

3. Run with a friend.

If you’re meeting someone for that morning jog then you’re much more likely to go. You don’t want to disappoint someone that’s depending on you. One summer I ran 5 miles day, 5 days a week and the only reason I was able to do it was because my best friend and I ran hip to hip each morning. I lost 10 pounds too!

4. Join a running group.

Running doesn’t have to be an arduous task that you’re forced to do day-in and day-out to stay healthy. In fact, it can be a social activity. Exercise Meetup groups, running or walking clubs, or Team in Training groups can help you meet your fitness goals and have fun doing it. 

5. Amp up.

Music is likely the number one reason why I love to run. I’ve been known to sing with an open mouth as I run down the road. Music is inspiring and motivating so if you’re looking for a reason to hit the pavement, tune in.

6. Choose a race and then another.

In terms of goal setting, a race is likely the most obvious way to go. Choose a race based on the distance you’re interested in running and have at it. Trust me, you’ll get addicted. 

7. Fuel up. 

Choose energy boosting foods. Make sure you’re getting enough iron by filling up on greens each day. Snack on nuts, which contain protein for endurance and coenzyme Q10, which helps produce energy inside your cells. 

8. Buy good sneakers.

In order to enjoy running you need to be comfortable. Choose sneakers that provide ample support and replace them as need be. 

9. Read about it. 

Running magazines and running books help get you excited about running because you get to read about those that have devoted their lives to the sport. If that doesn’t change your tune, nothing will.

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