I need help running?

Question

I'm new to running and i find that i have a really hard time with motivation. I'll go to the park and jog 1 lap but as soon as i feel like my lungs are going to explode i stop. How can I get past feeling like I'm going to die and just keep moving? Also, i find myself thinking to myself, "Why are you running? This is terrible and boring. Just stop."

Answer 1

I've found that new runners typical try to start out too fast, either with mileage building or speed, or both. Don't allow yourself to get to "exploding lung" stage, especially when you're starting out. Take it easy and smell the flowers for the first few weeks, and don't be afraid to take walk breaks. You'll avoid injuries and you'll like it more.

Another tip is setting micro goals, like mailboxes, telephone poles, signs, etc. Find something on the horizon when you're lagging and promise yourself that you'll reach that spot. Along those same lines, unless you're trail running and need to watch out for obstacles, I've found that it helps when you keep your eyes up.

Something that I try to avoid is listening to my iPod when I run. It gives me a terribly artificial performance boost and actually distracts me from my pacing. However, when I was starting out (and whenever I've needed to get back into shape) my iPod was a great motivator. As long as you're in a safe area, and you don't mind getting your player a little sweaty, it can help. Just don't get going to fast jamming out to Zepplin. (If you are training for a race, be aware that most races forbid iPods or any other personal music device. Don't get addicted if you want to race.)

That's about all. Just warm up well, stretch, drink water, eat well, and start out slow. Don't train through injuries, and you should be set. Good luck!

Answer 2

listen to music it will take your thoughts away from the pain

Answer 3

Make sure you are pacing yourself. Don't sprint the first lap.

Also try to find a trail to run on that would be more interesting. Running laps is the most boring thing possible. Tell yourself that you will get better the more you run and in a week you will be able to do better and have a higher endurance. Remember to do stretches and core workouts after running each day.

Answer 4

use an mp3-mp4 player alwsays works put som like dance athms on or drum and bass what ever really gets you in the mood also have is quite loud i have found that when i am running if ik cant hear my self breath then i can concentrat alot better :)

Answer 5

i used to think that wayy. but you cant try doing some more sit ups so it wont feel like your lungs are going to explode. and think postitve.be like i love running and i am going to loss weight from. take a couple mintuest of walking but not to long

Answer 6

Listening to an iPod while you run could help.

Or you could just join the Military. That worked for me.

Running always has and always will suck. You just have to do it. Do NOT start off at a sprint, keep a steady pace, and push yourself a little bit farther everyday. Also dress appropriately, and wear running shoes that match your arches in your feet. You can't just all of the sudden be a good runner. It takes time, and lots of miles on your shoes.

Answer 7

Don't ever think " Why are you running? This is terrible and boring. Just stop."  Running is not terrible it is very good for you. Just think of all of the benefits. It helps you to stay in great shape    and burns calories a long time after you stop. You will have a healthier heart and all sorts of good stuff. When I am running and really want to stop i think of how good I will look in my new bikini at the beach this summer. I sometimes listen to my ipod because running can get pretty boring.

  Don't quit your running, just give it a chance. Start out slow, it will get better i promise.