how to learn to love running

Looking to jump start your workout routine? Here are my top tips for anyone who wants to learn how to love running. 

Like many people, I wasn’t in good shape after the COVID lockdowns. After a year of sitting on my ass, my hips hurt, my back hurt, and I just didn’t feel good. Running seemed like the easy answer—it’s free and I can do it before my kids wake up. But getting in the mental state to run was a bit more challenging. 

I was telling a friend about wanting to be more active and she said she would run with me—giving me the motivation I needed to get up and go every morning. When she can’t run with me, I sometimes go by myself, but I love that my exercise doubles as social time. As a mom with two young kids, spending time with a friend and doing something for me is a great way to start the day. I still don’t run the entire time, but my stamina has definitely improved since I started. 

I’ve been running 3-4 times a week for a few months, and let me tell you: it’s a drug. I run more for my mind than my body just because it makes me feel so good. I feel like I’m a better version of myself and am more patient with my kids while leading by example. Running truly is soul food for me, and maybe it can be for you, too. 

Want to learn how to love running? Here are my tips: 

Run with a friend.

Having a running buddy has made it so much more enjoyable for me to create the routine of waking up and going for a run while keeping me accountable. My friend and I meet at 5:30 a.m. and jog around town, taking in the views and catching up on the day before as the sun rises.

 

Buy new running shoes (or something else that motivates you).

I love my Hoka running shoes—they’re like running on a cloud. Whether you get new running shoes or a comfortable workout outfit, anything that makes you excited to get up and go is well worth it. 

Track your steps!

Before I started running, my body didn’t feel good. I was working from home during the pandemic and not moving a lot during the day. Now, I average at least 10-12k steps, reaching 20k on some days. Seeing that number on my screen makes me want to move more. It’s so motivating to see your progress and have a goal to hit, even on days you don’t run. I use my Apple watch to track steps, but you can really use anything that has a reliable pedometer. 

Make a great playlist if you don’t have a running buddy. 

I’m a classic rock girl, but when I run by myself, I often find myself listening to Eminem. He is a lyrical genius, so his music pumps me up and keeps my attention while I go. The Marshall Mathers LP is the best of his albums. 

Just start, even if you start slow.

My FYP is filled with people embracing the hot girl walk. Walking is such a great exercise, so even if you have to walk more than run when you first start out, it will make an impact on your overall health—and make you feel incredible.

 

What are your top tips to start a new workout routine? Tell me on Instagram by tagging @bakedbymelissa! 

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