7 Excuses for not running, and how you can stop making them
About 45,000 runners will tackle the New York City Marathon on November 6. Though a 26.2-mile run might seem unthinkable, every single one of these people had to start somewhere. If they can run, so can you-if you've ever told yourself that you couldn't possibly be a runner, read on and think again.
Beginner's Running Tips
Excuse #1: "I'm too slow."
Sorry, but there is no such thing as "too slow." Watch any race and you'll see people of all ages and sizes running every pace from sprint to walk. Running is running, no matter the speed.
Excuse #2. "I'm overweight and running will stress my joints."
Shedding excess pounds will make running feel easier and reduce your risk of injury, but you don't have to wait for some magic number on the scale. You can start safely by incorporating running into walks. Begin with five minutes of walking. Then run gently for five to 10 seconds, and walk for 50 seconds. If that's comfortable, repeat the cycle for 10 minutes, and cool down with 10 minutes of walking. Rest the next day. Gradually extend your run/walk cycle until you eventually build up to 30 minutes. Over time, you'll be able to extend the length of the running segments.
Running Workouts That Help You Slim Down
Excuse #3. "It takes too much time!"
We hear you, but consider the payoffs of 150 minutes a week of "moderate intensity" exercise, as recommended by the American Heart Association and American College of Sports Medicine. With five 30-minute run-walk workouts per week, you can expect a reduced risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, colon cancer, breast cancer, anxiety, and depression.
20-Minute Running Workout Plan
Excuse #4. "I'm just going to get injured and have to stop."
True, runners get occasional muscle and joint aches, but these go away quickly, and won't derail your efforts. You're less likely to get injured if you follow the 'no huffing, no puffing' rule." Run at a pace that enables you to carry on a conversation and you'll pass "the talk test." If you do experience soreness that last more than a few days or sharp pains while running, it's best to see a sports physician.
Excuse #5. "I look weird when I run."
You've got good company. Watch any major race and you'll see world-class athletes as well as regular joes with form that greatly differs from the textbook definition. Run the way that is natural for you. When you run regularly, with feet low to the ground and using a short stride, your body will adapt over time to its most efficient motion.
How to Improve Your Stride
Excuse #6. "I can't afford expensive new running shoes."
Look in your closet: You should do fine with a pair of light, good-fitting sneakers or walking shoes. "You shouldn't wear cheap, old sneakers that don't fit," says Budd Coates, who has been teaching beginning running classes at Rodale (publisher of Runner's World) for 20 years. "But you don't need to rush out and buy new running shoes, because you're not going to be doing high mileage." But when you're ready, the right pair of running shoes will make your runs easier and more comfortable while adding extra injury-prevention features.
Excuse #7. "I'm out of shape and I've never run before."
Just like the millions of couch-potatoes-turned-runners who preceded you. "Beginners all say, 'This seems crazy. Can I do it?'" says Bob Glover, coauthor of The Runner's Handbook and New York Road Runners coach, who taught his first beginning running course in 1973. "I tell them, 'Yes, anyone can do this. Runners come in all shapes and all ages. You just have to take your time, and stick with the program.'"
The Secret to Motivating Yourself
Tell us: What has kept you from running right now or in the past?
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