In order for your body to get used to running you have to get used to the demands running places on you. You have to run regularly so instead of fitting in a random run here or there whenever your schedule or the weather allows try penciling in your workouts. Pick three or four times a week that you can run, and then stick with it. It will strengthen the muscles in your lower body and core that are needed to make running feel easier. It will also help build endurance. Ease into running with regular short runs and as it begins to get easier, increase your distance per workout.
No need to start off running a 7 minute mile. Slow down so that you’re breathing faster than you would if you were walking but not huffing and puffin so much that your lungs hurt or you’re gasping for breath. Running at a comfortable consistent pace is easier than sprinting so skip the interval trainings. When you’re starting out, you need to focus on correct running form and breathing. Slowing down will help you do these things and as your body becomes stronger it will increase your pace naturally. When you’ve done this, you can then start challenging yourself with sprinting intervals.
If you hate running then you’re doing something wrong. Find a way to make it enjoyable by bringing your dog or best friend along. Explore new places, listen to your favorite music or catch up on your ‘reading’ with a book on tape. Also try to reward yourself after your workout by doing it someplace fun like near water so after you’re done you can go for a swim to cool off.
Before your start running, start building your leg muscles by doing squats, lunges or step ups. When you’re legs are stronger, running will feel like a breeze. If you need to strengthen your legs while running try incorporating hills. When you start up the hill it will be extremely challenging but as soon as you get to the top and start running on a flat surface you’ll be amazed at how much easier running feels.
Running regularly will train your body and running will begin to feel easier, but if running is the only workout you do, boredom and stress injuries can make it unbearable. Mix up your cardio by biking, hiking, dancing and swimming. Doing other routines will strengthen your body in different ways. Doing this also helps you get excited for the days you run, because when you’re not doing it, you’ll find you miss it.
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