This Post May Not Be For You

Have you ever thought about running … or do you laugh at the idea of it? Does putting one foot in front of the other for more than a dash to the car during a thunderstorm sound absurd to you?

Then this post may not be for you.

photo © 2009 Josh Janssen | more info (via: Wylio)

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Unless that laughter is a coverup … and you do think it would be cool to be able to do a few miles, but you don’t know if you can run, so the laugh is covering up your insecurity. (a common human occurrence)

Anyone that can walk, can run … not that everyone has to, but if you want to, I think you can. Just ask Ida. Ida started running at age 67 and is still running today at age 95.

Below is information that can help you start running. There is no magic, you will not be running two miles tomorrow … but you could be starting a practice that is healthy and might bring you some amazing moments.

What is stopping you from running? The hard work? Are you really scared of hard work? Don’t you already work hard at your job, your parenting and/or cleaning your house?

The too-often repeated information about it hurting your knees? Research shows that it is not accurate. Yes, some runners do have knee issues … but so do other people. It’s a human problem, not a runner’s problem.

To begin running, follow these steps

You need a watch or cell phone. Wear clothes compatible with the weather and comfortable sneakers. You don’t need expensive running sneakers … any sneakers will work to start. (there goes that excuse)

Walk for ten minutes at a comfortable pace … not a stroll, but not a killer pace either. You are warming up your feet, legs, hips and lungs. Inhale, exhale, relax … take a few deep intentional breaths every minute. Then follow the schedule* below. Run at a comfortable pace, not a sprint. You will hate running if you try to sprint, even for 1 minute.

Monday – Run 1 min, Walk 2 min, Repeat 5x

Tuesday – Walk easy, 30 min

Wednesday – Run 1 min, Walk 2 min, Repeat 7x

Thursday – Walk easy, 30 min

Friday – Rest day

Saturday – Run 1 min, Walk 2 min, Repeat 10x

Sunday – Rest day

If Saturdays are too busy, switch the Saturday and Sunday schedule. If a 5-day workout schedule overwhelms you … any walking, whether grocery shopping, work or chasing toddlers, can count as the 30 minute walk on Tuesday and Thursday. (there goes that excuse)

Repeat this schedule for a week or two or three … then you’ll be ready for the next step. Happy Running! When you are ready for the next phase, leave a comment or email me at JanetOberholtzer@gmail.com.

So, if you wish you were a runner, but aren’t … what’s your excuse?

*adapted from this article.

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