What can I do instead of running?

[runlikeagirl]

I'm injured. Twice actually. I have an ongoing issue with my foot that is being seen to (slowly) by a podiatrist. I have also managed to damage my gluteus medius, causing hip pain. Been seen by a sports physio, who seemed to make it better but a 1 mile slow run brought back the pain.

I am going stir crazy (and getting chubby) from not running. What else can I do that is similar to running? I have a bike, and I don't mind cycling, but don't find it relaxing in the same way as running. More like a form of transport. I'm not a fan of swimming (all the leg shaving and hair washing).

What I love about running is the fact you can just go out and do it, it is pretty much the only time I get on my own and I don't have to concentrate on anything- I go into the zone!

[pootlebug]

Get a cheap speedo for your bike and challenge yourself to do certain pace for a certain time etc - it will make you push yourself more and make it less of a passive 'getting from a to b' sort of thing. Or do intervals of really hard and really easy, etc.

Injury sucks, doesn't it? It's so frustrating. I hope you are on the mend soon.

[alleypalley]

I broke my toe last year so my running ground to a halt. It sucks. I got a stationary bike, which I found excruciatingly boring so I did it in front of the tv, or balanced my Ipad on the front of it so I could read mumsnet as I cycled.
I also did more work with weights, I particularly enjoy kettlebell, low impact on your feet with the right routine, but also works up a good sweat. Don't know if you could do that with your hip injury though.

Hope you are on the road to recovery soon.

[PeaceOfWildThings]

Have a look at Fitness Blender Youtube videos.

Or there's...walking?
Wii fit
pilates
have a look at the type of exercise classes run at your local leisure centres, that might give you ideas for things you could do at home.

[LadyBlaBlah]

Yogaaaaaaaa
And if you have one near you Bikram yoga is magnificently difficult and will also help your injuries

[Claybury]

I wonder whether it takes time to enjoy something. Maybe you didn't love running at first but then it became a habit?
I am a runner but I learnt to swim a few years ago so I would have a back up when my body doesn't like running. I still think running gives you something other sports can't ( agree about ease of access, and fresh air ).
Maybe you need a new challenge - learn to swim and swim three times a week for a few months and then decide if you like it? Is there a triathlon club near you that offers swim sessions? You might enjoy it if you see yourself getting better ?
Also I agree about yoga but again if you're new to it, try several different classes and make yourself go regularly. It may help with injuries and make you feel better generally.
I feel for you, to be able to run is such a liberating feeling.
Cycling is also good, use strava to motivate you to improve.
With your injuries you definitely need a plan B you just need to make yourself do lots of stuff until you find it.

[Variousrandomthings]

Speed walking and rebounding. Both kinder to joints

[BlueChampagne]

Agree with Claybury - I have certainly come to love running as I've got a bit better at it! How about getting the map out and finding some new routes to cycle?