I run, I am not a runner, that is to say I run but I do not enjoy it. I run because my body hates running so much it is the only thing that motivates my post-baby, post-30 metabolism. I love running because it is fast, easy, requires no special equipment, I can do it anywhere, and I can do it early in the morning before the boys wake. I hate running because it is hard, it is mental, and I have terrible knees. I ran from when I was 16 until when my second trimester of pregnancy. Now, after many failed diets, too much money spent on trainers and on gym memberships, I am going back to what I know works, sweating it out to Nelly and Jay-Z every other morning at 4:30 am. There are few things that I use to help make running a little more fun and here are my crutches:
- MUSIC - If I had to pick one thing that is an absolute must, I would pick music. I wouldn't make it six blocks without it. Even in the military we ran to cadences. You don't have to spend a heap ton of money on it either, if you have an iPhone you can download Pandora or Spotify for free and they have some awesome powerhouse workout stations.
- Good Shoes - Shoes are essential. If your feet hurt you can't do much of anything. I have weird shaped feet and that makes it difficult, but there are plenty of running stores that will let you run in a pair of shoes or have special equipment that you stand on to help you get the perfect pair. For me, I love New Balances, I have been using them for 15 years. But, every body is different and every foot is too.
- Hydrate or die - You can run hungry or tried, but you can't run dry. You have to drink water the night before and after. I have a CamelBak Glass water bottle that I use constantly. Somehow the straw makes it easier for me to hydrate. Try a bottle you like in your favorite color, put on your desk or carry it around the house while you are doing chores. You will be amazed at how much better you feel when you drink water.
- Running App Coach- I love my running app. It tells me when to walk, and when to run, it lets me know if I am going to fast or not fast enough and when I have reached the halfway mark. You can try plenty of running apps for free. I love them.
- Fuel - I don't eat before I run, I used to when I was running for time or with others and wanted to perform well. I eat after, and I am currently loving Larabar Protein Bars. I am on a Paleo kick and I really think it has improved my runs and my energy in general. They sell these at Whole Foods, Trader Joe's and, of course, Amazon.
- Happy Workout Gear - You can run in any clothes you like, I spent a good chunk of my life running in BDUs and boots. But you should try and find some clothes that make you happy. Maybe its an old t-shirt, or your favorite old sports watch that doesn't work anymore. Whatever it is, wherever you get it, it should make you happy because you will need that little bit of umph to get out the door.
- Mental Game - Remember that Native Americans used to run for hours across expansive distances, running is all mental. If you pray, ask for some extra power, if you mediate, visualize yourself at the end of the run. Think about attaining your goal and how you will feel when you do, just don't stop, it is all in your head. Your body will want to fight you to rest, but push through. You can do it.
So those are my tips from someone who runs but does not enjoy it. All the best and happy work-outs.
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