Why can I not run more than one mile?

Question

Well, I can swim around mile without rest. I can bike for 45 miles with a few short breaks in between and still feel alright. But I just cannot run more than one mile. When I run, I get out of breath, which even if managed is compounded by excruciating pain on the side of the shins and feet. It is like the muscles in those areas are getting tired in a jiffy and are protesting.

I am 6 feet and weigh 180Lbs. I play basketball too and I have a similar issue in the beginning, but after I take it slow for some time, I can keep going for a couple of hours and I know I may have run more than a mile.

So, how should I get myself fit to run? It is really pathetic when you cannot run the distance that you can swim easily.

Answer 1

I have been running for 8 years now and would recommend the following:

I would strengthen the core: calves, quads, hams, back and abdominal (the "six pack" muscles along with the obleks), chest and arms. But when strengthening these muscles, I would focus more on the muscle endurance not the muscle bulk. For more advice for this, I would consult with a personal trainer. For the running part, I would stay flexible as it helps/contributes to your balance (so do the muscles in your core) but also helps prevent some injuries like pulled muscles and shin splints. Also, I would try to make up a schedule where you can run for X amount of days and try to have a long run. I would start off slowly, running about 2-3 miles per run for the first week and increase my mileage per week. Make sure you have the following: a good diet, hydration, sleep, a good sense on how to take care of your body, and sleep. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me. Good Luck!!!

Answer 2

It's probably mental.  Try slowing down to a light jog and aim at three miles.  You don't want to kill yourself sprinting a mile, that won't work.  Instead, try to do a mile in under 15 miles with a light jog.  After that, plan a two mile course and slowly jog that.

Once you get over the hurdle of 1 mile, you will see yourself running 3-4 easily, with a little training.

Answer 3

Distance running can be hard. I used to run cross-country for highschool and then 3-4 miles a day while enlisted in the Marines. Best advice is to start slow and let yourself build endurance towards the pain, and soon enough you'll be running longer and longer with less side effect.