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Original poster

Has anyone grown to enjoy running outside?

44 replies

yellowpolkadots101 · 30/12/2019 17:35

Just that really, I usually go on the treadmill at the gym, unfortunately I am no longer a member so went on my first run today in a very long time!

I managed 30 mins but stopped quite a few times! I have never really enjoyed running and I find myself getting more out of breath running outside than I do on a treadmill which is strange!

I want to continue as it really does help me lose weight and I know it is also good for my mental health!

Any success stories?

OP posts:
Hollyhead · 30/12/2019 17:37

Running outside is harder than a treadmill, but the knack is to walk when you need to catch your breath then keep going, it won’t take many weeks to ditch the walking! Have you got some nice places to run? That also helps, I’m in the countryside so I often put on off toad trainers and go cross country on footpaths.

Original poster
yellowpolkadots101 · 30/12/2019 17:41

I unfortunately live in a town, but there are small parks nearby! How often do you run if you dont mind me asking?

I do have achey legs so it must be doing something! I just need to try and be persistent.

OP posts:
BoogleMcGroogle · 30/12/2019 17:46

Me! It's harder work and you really get to find out where the hills are ( there's a half mile killer I run up that looks flat in the car!) but being out in the sunshine, or the rain and coming home with muddy trainers ( my runs include woods, streams and fields) is a real buzz. How about trying you local Park Run?

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Runningonempty84 · 30/12/2019 17:47

It'll take you a couple of weeks to get into it, as running outside is harder (and better exercise!) than the treadmill but, once you're used to it, you'll find it hard to go back. I run every day, always outdoors, and haven't been on a dreadmill in years.

If you're out of breath, slow down. Remember to adjust your pace for the hills, and just take it as steady as you need to. Soon you'll start concentrating on what's around you, rather than your running, IYSWIM, and runs will pass far more quickly than they do on a treadmill with no real-life distractions. I also love being outdoors for discovering new routes and being more in touch with the weather/changing seasons/local geography and landscapes than when you're stuck indoors.

BillywilliamV · 30/12/2019 17:50

I love it and miss it, I have arthritis in my feet and won't run again. This makes me sad.

Original poster
yellowpolkadots101 · 30/12/2019 17:56

I just wish I enjoyed it more, maybe it will come with time!

How long did it take you all to start to feel comfortable running and therefore more enjoyable?

Also how many times a week do you all run?

OP posts:
TheoneandObi · 30/12/2019 18:01

I can only add that when I ran on treadmills I got shin splints (very ouchy), and that running outside is far far more fun. Look out for a local Park Run to give your running week some structure, or seek out a local running club. They have groups for all abilities and welcome everyone (IME).
I no longer run by the way, but do cycle and walk. Sometimes I ponder that i'll return to it....

NothingIsWrong · 30/12/2019 18:02

Slow down to start with. You'll get the hang of it soon enough! I only run outside now and hate the dreadmill with a passion.

TriangleBingoBongo · 30/12/2019 18:04

Running on a treadmill bores me to tears - I run half marathons and train 4x a week so lots of road running for me.

BabbleBee · 30/12/2019 18:07

I can’t bear running inside - too hot, too boring, too many other people!

Give me a good, muddy trail path in the trees ... bliss.

Check your running shoes are good for outside and you’ve got enough cushioning. Gym shoes won’t cut it.

LividLaughLove · 30/12/2019 18:16

Yes - I'm fat and unfit but love running outside. Well, I came to love it, but it took going several times a week (very slow pootle) to get the habit.

Haven't been able to since I got pregnant and weirdly looking forward to being able to put my trainers on when baby is here.

Meltedicicle · 30/12/2019 18:46

Another one saying try Parkrun. It’s really fun and everyone else running motivates you to keep going. I have got out of the habit but earlier in the year I was doing one parkrun and one midweek run. Lost weight prior to this with workout apps and had got to a good level of fitness but the running definitely helped me maintain the weight loss.

Zaphodsotherhead · 30/12/2019 18:57

I only run outside (no space for a treadmill and a dog that would try to get on with me). I run country lanes and bridleways (with the dog) and, honestly, it's so much better than being indoors.

You can run with the sun on your face, see the world in all seasons, greet other runners and walkers...it's lovely. It's harder work because the road is hard underfoot and bridleways are sometimes like running on grease, but I get the dog exercised and my run at the same time!

It's not so nice going out when it's raining or snowing, but I still go, on the grounds that, if I wait for the 'perfect running weather' I'd only go out twice a year.

Zaphodsotherhead · 30/12/2019 18:58

Oh, and I run six days a week.

Because of dog needing to go out. On the seventh, I rest (well, I walk).

Blibbyblobby · 30/12/2019 19:02

Much prefer exercising outside.

In case anyone’s interested, the reason real running is harder than treadmill is air resistance. On a treadmill you aren’t moving forward so there’s no air resistance to overcome (Ok, maybe a bit against your legs but nothing significant).

ReviewingTheSituation · 30/12/2019 19:05

The fresh air and downhill bits make it all worthwhile! I hate treadmills with a passion, but love being outside in all weathers (as long as my hands and ears are warm!)

DickDewy · 30/12/2019 19:11

I loathe running outside. I live in the most beautiful area with loads of lovely areas to run, but I bloody hate it.

I love running on the treadmill, however. I have it at a 2% incline and vary the speed to kid myself it mimics running outside. I don't know why I enjoy treadmill running so much, but I do. I also detest cycling but worship at the altar of spinning 3x a week.

jeremypaxo · 30/12/2019 19:14

Go nice and slow, make sure your trainers aren't done up too tight and have some good music to listen to.

That said, I have never ever enjoyed the sensation of running outside (and I've run marathons in the past). What I do enjoy is the sense of achievement after a run and the endorphin high that an hour or so of exercise gives me. I just grit my teeth and get through it for that.

Runningonempty84 · 30/12/2019 19:55

Probably took me about six weeks to feel comfortable running, but it's still not "comfortable" all the time, if you see what I mean. I run on roads, trails, mountains; sometimes fast, sometimes just slow and to enjoy it, sometimes with friends for a bit if a social. I run most days and, on the rare days I don't run, will still cycle (I cycle commute) and go to the gym.

thequeenofsandwich · 30/12/2019 20:09

I strangely find it harder on the treadmill. I run further, faster outdoors. I like to vary my routes , exploring and nosying.
Spent my Christmas money today on trail shoes . Can't wait

NameChange789435 · 30/12/2019 20:11

I transitioned from treadmill to outdoors when our puppy was old enough to run with me. I needed the exercise and he needed a run so it seemed the most sensible solution!

I had a timer on my phone that counted out a set number of intervals of running and then a short walking/recovery/knicker-adjusting period. Grin
It felt less knackering to run a route in bite size chunks knowing there was a short rest period coming. So I was able to run for longer because I just aimed for the next interval. Just a thought if you think that might help!
Totally agree with PP who mentioned being outdoors makes you more in touch with nature etc. My route varies from 7-12k or so now depending on how I'm feeling and I really love seeing how the scenery changes as the seasons change! My dog loves it too and it's very sociable, other runners & dog walkers etc. We run in snow and all sorts now!
Keep at it! Smile

dkl55 · 30/12/2019 20:16

I've grown to love it. Especially having a good audiobook to listen to makes the time fly by and is really meditative and relaxing. Get wireless headphones and put some books on your phone.

marvelousways · 30/12/2019 20:32

oh, but running outside is the the best and sooooo much easier than on a treadmill once you get used to it. I often run up to 15 miles outside. On a treadlmill I struggle to make it to 4 miles! Put some music on and off you go, just you, your music and fresh air. Bliss.

Craftycorvid · 30/12/2019 20:39

I discovered outdoor running a few years ago. Yes, it’s harder work and you use more muscle groups than at the gym, but British weather and the fact my only green choice locally is the park - hence I do go back to the treadmill from time to time. But this thread has got me thinking it’s time to get my arse outdoors again!

minesagin37 · 30/12/2019 20:53

I ran round the park this morning doing couch to 5 k and to keep myself going I counted crows and squirrels. It's more interesting.