I Used to Hate Running. Here’s How I Learned to Actually Enjoy It

Basically, shallow and irregular respiration through your upper chest may cause that uncomfortable muscle tightness I used to be talking about, as SELF previously reported. That’s why experts often recommend setting a more regular inhale-exhale rhythm that involves respiration together with your belly, not only your chest. Being intentional about this has been one in every of the best—and most worthwhile—changes I’ve made to make running somewhat less grueling on my very unathletic body.

3. Invest in even only one pair of comfortable sneakers.

Turns out, running in chunky, on a regular basis Filas or cute-ass lifestyle Nikes not only made me pretty slow, but additionally gave me toe blisters and hot spots behind my heels—injuries which are pretty common while you wear ill-fitting shoes. So pounding the pavement became way less painful (and far more enjoyable) after I swapped my old kicks for some supportive Hoka Mach X’s as an alternative.

Finding your “perfect” sneaker is determined by loads of things, like whether you will have flat feet or high arches, need a regular or wide toe box—the list goes on. This all might sound complicated, especially should you’re a newbie, so I suggest doing what I did: Go to a close-by running specialty store (like Fleet Feet, DICK’s Sporting Goods, or Road Runner Sports) and ask for help from a staff member who’s trained to know these things. They can take a take a look at your feet and recommend just a few pairs to try on IRL. (You also can turn to SELF’s complete running shoe guide for more pointers.)

Checking out all different brands and styles can get overwhelming (and potentially expensive), though. For now, just start with finding one pair that matches rather well and makes you are feeling confident. Because let’s be honest: Post-work jogs will be fun in case your toes are smushed or your heels are screaming at you with every step.

4. Share your wins with fellow runners who’re in your corner.

The great thing about running for yours truly (a proud introvert) is that it may well be a solo thing—unlike group classes, say, or team sports. That said, having personal cheerleaders to root for me (and vice versa) made an enormous difference in my motivation.

When I first began running (and almost quit immediately), for example, my track star of a best friend pumped me up with pep talks (and a few helpful recs about the perfect sports bras and pre-workout snacks). Signing up for a 5K was also intimidating for a rookie like me—but having a few fellow-beginner pals join me made my first race an exciting milestone (and bonding sessions) to look ahead to.

The point is, despite the fact that running is referred to as a loner sport, there are many ways to show it right into a shared experience, which might make it more fun. Maybe you text your triathlete cousin about your sore calves or bond with a coworker over sneaker recs. You also can share your PRs on an interactive app like Nike Run Club or Strava—these platforms allow you to connect with friends, track one another’s runs, and offer kudos with virtual high-fives so you could construct camaraderie every step (heh) of the way in which.

5. Reserve that special playlist or podcast episode to your runs, so you will have something to look ahead to.

Getting right into a running groove is a little bit of an art form—and for me, the key lies in syncing up with the right workout playlist or podcast that takes my mind off the trouble of running.

Your go-to energy booster is perhaps a creepy true crime podcast that gets your adrenaline pumping. Or perhaps it’s Ariana Grande’s recent (and might I add, perfect) album that helps the miles fly by. But here’s the trick: Whatever you select—hearken to it while you’re running. In other words, not while you’re commuting to work or singing within the shower.

I’ve found that my brain gets excited for that special little treat once I hold off on the latest episode of say, or my favorite Nicki Minaj bops until my Sunday jog. Especially on days when the weather is gloomy or my motivation is low, just wanting to get some miles in isn’t all the time enough to get me on the market. But my favorite playlist? Or the following episode of ? Now those are some rewards that’ll have me lacing up my Hokas with anticipation.

Related: