Starting to exercise regularly—whether it's running or any other activity—is difficult. That's one of the reasons that the obesity rate in our country is so high. It takes work to exercise. We have to force ourselves to do it even when we don't want to. We expect it will be easy and frankly, it just is not.
As summer arrives, this is a perfect time to start running regularly. Here are a few tips that will help you adhere to a regular exercise routine.
More: Learn to Run in 4 Simple Steps
1. Keep Perspective: We need to expect that it will be difficult. It takes 21 days for something to become a habit and longer to become a lifestyle. Reminding yourself that or running regularly is not easy and expecting that it will be difficult can help keep things in perspective.
2. Know the Benefits: Focus on the benefits you will get out of running regularly. On average, active people live four years longer than inactive people, largely because they put off developing heart disease —the nation's leading killer. Regular exercise can also lead to improved health, a decrease in symptoms related to an illness, an increase in energy, and improved brain functioning. Thinking about these benefits can get you out the door.
3. Start Small: Sometimes we jump right into something in a manner we can't sustain. Instead, think about building up over the long term. Maybe you start today by walking a mile. Then, repeat that two more times this week. You can add to that next week by walking a mile and a half three times a week. When you feel ready, start running for 30 seconds and then walking for 30 seconds and continuing this progress.
More: Running 101: Take the First Step Today
4. Make Time: The number one barrier people report for not exercising is time. They say that don't have the time to exercise or run. We all just need to make time. You may have to wake up at 5 a.m. or skip your favorite TV show at night. These sacrifices will be worth it — you will feel better both physically and psychologically.
5. Set a Goal: Write it down on paper and then break it into smaller, incremental goals to help you stay motivated. Post your goals somewhere you can see it often. Many people also find it easier to run regularly when they have registered for a race or event. There are many local races this summer and fall you could train for.
6. Share Goals: Tell others your goals. When we share our goals, we are more likely to accomplish them. Tell your family and friends about your commitment to start running. Facebook can be a very powerful tool to keep you going. Post that you plan to start and then periodically post your progress. Facebook allows you to get instant support and encouragement from your friends, which will help when times get tough.
More: 6 Ways to Help a New Runner
7. Ask for Help: After telling your friends or family about your goals, ask for their help. Perhaps they could run with you, or hold you accountable each day by asking about your workout.
8. Focus on Progress: Forget about what you look like. Another barrier that holds people back from exercising is their concern about how they look. Keep the focus on you and your progress. Runners come in all shapes and sizes — watch any organized race and you will see what I mean. You might inspire others like you to be more active.
More: Find Your Running Motivation
We could all come up with a million excuses to not exercise or run regularly. But be honest with yourself. We must each hold ourselves accountable. Focus on the good that comes out of the run or workout. And every time you run or exercise, celebrate at least one thing that was good about what you just did. Instead of thinking about how you only ran one mile, celebrate the mile you just ran. This will keep you confident and motivated for the future.
Sign up for your next race.Get ACTIVE on the Go
Couch to 5K®
The best way to get new runners off the couch and across the finish line of their first 5K.
Available for iOS | Android
Discuss This Article