Getting to like running... ?

Question

I desperately need to lose weight and I was thinking maybe I could start running. As of right now, I cannot stand running and I was just wondering how I could sort of condition myself to get used to it so I could go for runs every now and then..

and when I say desperately, I mean really really really (5'11"/290)

Answer 1

just tell your self that if you do it you'll be happier when its over cuz you'll loose wieght.

good luck!

Answer 2

I would recommend you start out real slow.  You can jog a little, walk a little, and repeat.  Running is going to be your best bet, as it burns the most calories.  Runners who "love" running did not start out loving it.  Running is always hard at first, but the more you do it- the more you will amaze yourself at how much easier it gets.  The "love" part only comes after you have amazed yourself with how far you can go.  Running is all in your breathing and yes like they say- in your head.  Running is great for your mind, body, and soul.  At first you may feel burning and nasea- but believe me- if you keep on keeping on- you will be floating in no time.  I am a runner who "loves" it and I a can tell you first hand- there is no feeling like the feeling of accomplishing physical feats that you never thought possible!  Everyone has to start somewhere!  I hope one day you can say you love it too.  Good Luck!!!!

PS-Make sure you have an IPOD or MP3 with songs that really motivate you- I wouldn't be able to run without mine.

Answer 3

Just do it you will lose weight n love it

Answer 4

You have to start one lap at a time at your local quarter mile track and don't get discouraged. Also, toss in some sprints to build up your leg muscles.

Whatever you do, do not stop and walk. If you're going to run one lap, then do it. In a month, you should easily be up to 2, etc., etc.

And don't rationalize to eat more -- you don't need to eat more just because you're running a measely couple of laps. In fact, the lighter you are, the easier running will be. Good luck.

Answer 5

If you're normally very sedentary, I don't actually recommend running immediately unless you've talked to your doctor and he/she has approved.  It may be easier, safer, and more effective to go on several brisk walks each day. In addition to being more enjoyable (you can take in the scenery and think or listen to music), it'll also be less strain on your bones/joints and your heart/lungs, since they're not used to being pushed so hard. You can work your way up to running later, when brisk walking doesn't put you out of breath. Additionally, walks are easier to work into your schedule (take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk to the store or the neighbor's instead of driving if it's within a mile, etc).

If you want to lose weight, talking to your doctor for suggestions is a good place to start; you don't want to push too hard and end up flat on your back with an injury.  Cut out (or cut down on) the junk food while you're at it, if you normally eat a lot. No need to starve yourself, just avoid eating when you're not actually hungry.  I'd also suggest some weight training, since muscle helps burn fat.

As for making yourself like running...first identify what it is you dislike about it. Is it the clothes?  The discomfort?  The boringness?  Once you pinpoint what you dislike, you can work to change those (you can find running clothes that are comfortable and that you like, you can listen to music/books ontape or something while you run, if you dislike running on a treadmill you can find a park or somewhere you can run outside and vice versa, and if it's just too physically uncomfortable right now, you should stick to walking and swimming until you can jog comfortably).  

Good luck!