It's really easy not to be a runner.
But the truth is, running is something that everyone can do. You don't have to be the fastest person on earth and you don't ever have to place in your age group. When you run, even if it's 4mph, you're still lapping every single person on the couch. A runner is a runner, nothing else matters.
So I'd like to break down a few common excuses and explain why they really aren't excuses at all.
I'm talking to you
1. "My Ribs Hurt When I Run" While the side stitch thing does thoroughly suck, this is something that you have to remember goes away with time. As your body gets more in shape from running, your abdomen will adjust to the constant bouncing around. This was something I personally dealt with, and I can assure you that I really can't remember the last time I got one. And if one does pop up? Focusing on taking long, deep breaths should make it go away.
2. "I'm Too Busy To Run" When this line comes up, the problem is that people are looking at their "run" the wrong way. When you decide to become a runner, you can't look at running as a pain in the ass. It might feel a little bit like that at first - but it should actually be something you're willing to make time for. You might be busy, but instead of spending an hour on the couch after your hard day - use your run as a way to destress. You don't need a 4 hour window of free time every day to be a runner. To me, there's no better way to shake off a bad mood or a heavy workload than to put on a fresh playlist, pop in my earbuds, and literally just forget the world. Sure it's easier to sit on the couch wrapped in a blanket watching Boy Meets World reruns eating Reese cups all night whining about how stressed you are on Twitter, but I can guarantee you'll feel as hell of a lot better after you put in a mile or two. And the best part, it was only an hour out of your day. 60 minutes TOPS. You have that to spare.
3. "The Treadmill Bores Me, I'll Start In The Spring" Let's be honest, friends: that's not going to happen. Putting off something, especially fitness related, generally does not pay off. If you feel like you want to start running and it's the winter - go buy yourself some Under Armour and get your ass outside. As long as the sidewalks aren't covered in ice, there's no reason why you can't run outside when it's chilly. In fact, running in the cold weather is often when I feel the best. It's invigorating and you'll just feel totally alive out there. Gear up, get out there, and don't make excuses. Once the Spring comes, you'll really appreciate being able to run outside in a tank top and shorts. Just be sure that you're stretching and taking the proper precautions beforehand. If you're a newbie, a good place for cold weather running advice is Active.com.
4. "I Don't Know Where To Start" I'll give you a hint: first, you put on a pair of shoes. Then, you go outside. It's not rocket science, folks! I think the problem here is that a lot of people feel silly when they first start running because they're not as in shape as they'd like to be or it was never their "thing" before. Here's the cold hard truth: everyone has to start somewhere. If you're dedicated to becoming a stronger, better person - it shouldn't matter what anyone else thinks. Being able to start basically from scratch and see results weeks later is quite possibly the most amazing feeling on earth. Don't let your friends teasing you about your new found interest in fitness get under your skin. When you're crossing the finish line at a 5k a few months from now crushing your personal records, post it on Facebook and tag them in it. It doesn't matter where you started, it matters where you've gotten. Start slow and run for a half hour a day until you feel more comfortable. That's the great thing about running: there are no rules. You'll be amazed at what this sport can do for you both physically and mentally when you give it the time it deserves.
5. "Do I Look Like A Runner To You?" No, but you could.
Keep Running,
Kelli
