Correcting the Top 5 Running Misconceptions

When talking to people about running (which I do a lot), I so often hear from people who want to run but don't know what to do, haven't enjoyed it, aren't comfortable doing it or have gotten injured previously. There's a few misconceptions that are inevitably conveyed during these discussions, and all ones that I've previously held myself too, which I try to give a steer on.

For anyone wanting to get into running, or make a gallant return, hopefully these will help you get those runners back on and out having fun! These aren't going to be true for everyone, and some people just aren't going to enjoy running (or aren't able to!), but hopefully they help a few.

Presenting our top 5 running misconceptions!

Running has to hurt all the time

Wrong! I'm not going to get all scientific on you (that'd be borderline negligent given how little I actually know), but once I slowed down my running I both started to enjoy it more and I got better! How slow? Real slow. As slow as you want. At a maximum you should be able to hold a conversation (even better, take a friend so you can!). If you've got your heart rate zones set, something at the bottom of Z2 would be fine. There's this misconception that you should be gassed the entire time you're out there. Why would any one want to do that? How could anyone motivate themselves to get out knowing they'll be in pain the whole time? Not my idea of fun.

Now some of you might be reading this and tutting away saying that's no way to get better. And you're quite right. But here's what I'll say. If you're just getting started or back into it, the most important thing for you is consistency. Build the routine, no matter how small it is (doesn't matter if it's just getting out for one km each week), and once you've settled into that add a bit more distance, or another run. If you're not in pain (or, even starting to enjoy it!), hopefully you'll be inclined to get out there more. Once you've got a solid base, that is when you can start adding in a few things that'll hurt (pace work, fartlek, hills, whatever) - but worry about that once you're having fun and enjoying running.

I'm too slow

See above. There's no such thing. You should be going slower I say! But also, I've never met a runner who judged anyone for how fast or long they can run. All we care about is that you're out there running! I know it's hard to stop listening to that little voice that tells you everyone is watching and judging, but gosh damn it feels good when you do. Strava is a tricky one for this - even for those who want to run slower to improve - knowing that everyone can see how far and fast you went. But I stand by my comments, no one cares. We just want you out there. And hey if you're still worried, set those runs to private. Or go out there without a tracker and just do what feels good for you. You'll love it.

Running is boring

Incorrect. If it is, you're doing it in the wrong places! Get off the treadmill, or away from the oval, and find yourself somewhere awesome to run. Trails (obviously) are the best and such an adventure, but they're not for everyone. Waterways are great to follow. Find your nearest parkland - it'll have paths snaking through it. Your city or town probably has some kind of tourist or commemorative walk - boom, running path. Whatever you find, make sure it's not straight (nothing's worse than seeing how far you have to go in front of you. Yuck.) and ideally find a loop so you don't have to go out and back (you want to keep the scenery fresh!).

I'm too busy

You may very well be. I can't help you there. But know this - you can easily multitask while running. If you can make it work, see if you can introduce running into your commute. How much better is getting healthy, enjoying the outdoors, than sitting on a packed bus? Much better. You'll probably need a shower you can access at work (or not, no judgement), and it takes some coordination to make sure you've got all the clothes you need at work ready for you (hot tip: always keep a spare pair of your preferred under-garments and socks there), but totally worth it in my mind. But that's not your only option! How about you learn something while you're running? Podcasts probably single handedly kept me going all these years. Find your favs and the time will fly by. Audio books are amazing too. Finally, as mentioned previously, it can be a great socialiser. Head out with a mate on the weekend, a family member in the morning or a colleague at lunch, and have a good old chat! If you run out of things to talk about, complain about running!

My X hurts so I can’t run

I can't help you with that. Go see a doctor. Or a physio. Or do what they told you to do and get better. Or just don't run and keep reading my lovely website and living vicariously through me. All good options. I hope you get better soon!

Thanks for reading. Hope you found something helpfun in there.

Any other misconceptions you want busted? Want to bust my misconception busting? Hit the comments.