How do I train/motivate myself to start to love running?

Question

about 4 years ago my mile time was around 8 minutes, and since I haven't ran since, I am assuming it's probably around 12 minutes. Now I have a treadmill at home, and I need some training tips. And I don't care if it takes 10 months to get down to the 6 minute mile.

But does anyone have a cross training plan so I can get from a 12 minute mile to a 6 minute mile without making a fool of myself?

Answer 1

I think the best way to get back into it is Consistency!  I always notice if I can be consistent, and do whatever it is for many days in a row, then I do not want to miss a day.  Also, start slow, and build yourself back up.  Like don't worry about running the mile in X amount of minutes.... So, start out with just one lap - and time yourself.  Then, next time you do it, work to get that one lap faster.  Then try two laps in a row, and time yourself.  And the next time, try and beat your time.  Even if you are only 15 - 30 seconds faster - you are on your way!  Good Luck!

Answer 2

Just start running, but start out slow. Since you haven't ran in 4 years, start out doing a fast walk pace every day for 20 -30 mins for one week . Use the treadmill to determine the fastest you can walk without it hurting and without it being practically a jog or run. This will help to tell your body, more specifically your legs, that you are going to start working out again and so they need to be prepared. It's also good for breathing exercises. You can practice your breathing while you're walking to help with correct air flow. Don't forget to squeeze your abs often.

The next week, start jogging not running, on the treadmill. Jog at a speed that is comfortable but not too comfortable to you. You don't want it to be an easy jog, but you also don't want it to be a hard jog. Just do what you can for as long as you can.

Basically, you need to start out slow and gradually work your way up. I've learned from personal experience over and over again that if you start out doing too much too soon, you end up quitting because you're in too much pain. Regardless if you were a former professional runner, you still need to start out SLOWLY if you haven't done any running in 4 years. You never want to over do yourself. You can do some cross training as well, but don't do something extreme like mountain biking. Don't forget to lift weights as well. You need to do workouts for your calves, quads, and hamstrings and your arms too.

If you continue doing this on a regular basis you should be ready to do more in about 8 weeks. By then you'll be able to run faster.