Reasons we don't exercise

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Missy Foy

Gary Hall Jr.

Team Type 1

Adam Morrison

Is it too boring to be a runner?

I hear this complaint a lot: Running is so boring. It's usually said by non-runners or by those struggling to become runners. Yes, running can seem boring in the beginning when you're panting along a trail and there seem to be miles and miles left to run. But as you get better, even long runs become fun.

Experienced runners, even when they're running long and hard, have the ability to relax, stay in the moment, while also focusing on goals along the way and an overall objective.

Inexperienced runners who are not yet comfortable running, who're gasping for breath, can't find a flowing, rhythmic stride, are not able to remain in the moment and enjoy it.

Frank Shorter, Olympic gold medalist, marathon

They're too busy thinking of the endless road ahead. They're caught in a dilemma of wanting to complete the run, but hating the time and effort it's taking. They focus on the remaining miles and minutes. They long for the moment their workout will be over.

That feeling of a thankless chore, a soul-destroying slog, can eat away at you until you give up and walk. As soon as you stop, you feel better. But you're also a little guilty. Next time, you tell yourself. Next time I'll keep running. Just let me rest now.

One way of avoiding this struggle altogether is to dismiss running as boring, to pretend not to be interested in fitness and exercise. If only running were more interesting, you tell yourself, I'd do it. But I hate being bored.

If you're that person -- and I've been many times -- you're probably trying to do too much, too soon. You want to run hard and fast before you have the legs, heart, and lungs to do so.

Slow down. It'll make you feel better right away. Focus on the fact that you've made the brave decision to be active. You're there on the road NOW. You're doing it. That in itself is fantastic because it is so very easy not to run.

You're one of the lucky ones. You're doing what millions of peple wish they could do but can't. Enjoy the gift of being able to run.

You will get stronger, and faster, and fitter, and leaner. You will be rewarded for your effort.

Even experienced runners have off days when the running is no fun. There are days when the weather is against you, when your legs are heavy, when work and family weigh heavy on your mind.

But longtime runners know they'll reap tomorrow what they sow today. They're aware that even the bad runs, the long slogs, will make them stronger.

Be inspired by that same attitude. You shouldn't run through pain, but you must build the ability to endure hardship. It takes time. Don't rush to get there.

Choose the right running shoes

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