Jogging is awful

[EnigmaticIcelandShopper]

Hello, I was just wondering if anyone else finds jogging really, really difficult? I'm not massively unfit, I walked 36 miles a couple of weekends ago (over 2 days) . However, everytime I attempt to run, it feels like I'm able to only run for a couple of metres, then stop, then run etc. I am slightly overweight but not massively so. I went for a jog today with my son and felt sick and headachey for an hour afterwards. I've tried couch to 5k but can never get past week 1, quite frankly it's embarrassing. Any tips? If I persevere will it get easier?

I’m not a natural runner and posted a similar thread a few weeks ago.

I was feeling despondent after starting C25 and finding it like running through mud. I got lots of encouragement and three weeks on, am still at it. I use the Fitness 22 app, which gives you the option of repeating runs if you feel a stage is difficult. Consequently, I’m still at the running for 1 1/2 minute stage, rather than much further along.

However, even though I haven’t progressed far, I tell myself it’s not a race, and at least I’m doing thirty minute exercise 2-3 times a week, which I wasn’t before.

Not sure I’m at the ‘enjoying’ stage yet, and it’s still a struggle. I’m waiting for that breakthrough moment (I hope) when it becomes easier.

Just do something else! Exercise should be something to look forward to not dread.

I would occasionally look forward to the idea of my run, then be disappointed by the reality!

'Looking forward' to exercise is something that has never happened in my 54 years.

Agree, I don't look forward to exercise but I do look forward to the feeling I get afterwards.
Running is hard, I've been getting back into it and it feels like such an effort sometimes but always, always feel better for doing it so it's more the reward rather than the process for me.

I am a natural runner. When I've had really difficult runs (too tired, pushed myself when coming down with a cold, ignoring a niggle) I think that's what it must feel like for people who don't enjoy it. There is no way I would keep it up - you need to find an exercise you enjoy. Then you get the benefit of fitness, the excitement of getting out, the buzz during and the anticipation of the next one. I think I'm fortunate but I do believe there is a form of exercise out there that everyone can enjoy.

It definitely gets easier.

I started running (couch to 5k) over a year ago, finished it on time, but found it hard going. After that I didn’t run for ages and did spin at the gym instead.

I went back to running when gyms closed at start of lockdown. I still hated it. But (due to a lack of gym) I persevered.

Now, I can go a decent pace for as long as I want. I can do 10k or 15k without feeling sore during or after. And I really enjoy it now.

I think it’s all about slowly letting the muscles develop, and figuring out posture etc. Like anything in life, the more you do it, the better you get.

Depending on the quality of the surfaces around you an amazing alternative to running, is skating. Skating provides all of the cardio benefits of running and many more anaerobic benefits, it creates an amazing core without the impact on the joints. It's also a million times more fun because you are gliding. Even maintaining a consistent 30/km/p/h pace it's possible to chat with a companion because you aren't dealing with impact. Though if alone with fast paced music, you'll probably find it easier to work harder.

You do have to invest in good quality skates designed for endurance/ultra endurance and really should get some safety equipment. Like handguards, knee pads and wear a helmet because it's possible to hit speeds of up to 50km/p/h even just cruising. And unfortunately it's not a sport that works well with wet weather or persistent ice. But the lack of impact on the joints especially as you get older really allows for serious levels of endurance to be maintained right through old age.

Oh I've always wanted to try in line skating, @alittleprivacy! But I'm the most accident prone person ever, so I think it probably wouldn't end well.

Also, I'm nearly 56, so I think people would point and laugh... 🤭

@ilovecardigans We have older people than that in out skate group. In fact watch this woman who trained with a skate teacher I follow on youtube and see what's possible.

I'm doing C25k and so far it's working! I've tried it in the past and failed but this time I'm going slower - so slow that my phone hasn't actually recognized it as running! I do feel like I am improving though.

Also after being stuck inside for months in lockdown even when I don't enjoy the running, I appreciate it iyswim!

Oh wow, @alittleprivacy, that woman is amazing! I would really love to do that. Thanks for posting the clip. 😀