102 Comments
Jul 14, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Instead of running, how about walking or power hiking/speed walking instead? I was always of the mindset that "every step in training and racing HAS TO BE running", but I finally asked myself the question Why? I mix up my training and racing by walking/hiking/running, and it has taken the "chore" out of my vocabulary, and made it a part of my daily routine and my life. I've found that I'm more healthy, both physically and mentally. I hope this helps.

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Jul 13, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

This is my first time to read this Fri post or any HM for 7 months. Last Dec I had Covid. It was not fun but not a horrible thing. But since then my motivation to run has been very low. The most I have been able to muster is 1 to 2 per week.

About 2 weeks ago I decided I needed to change that. So I signed up for the Air Force Half in-person in Sep. I have done the Half & Full both in the past 5 years. But have not done any in person since ‘19.

I am totally pumped about it. But, it has not flipped the switch on motivation. I have run 11 of the past 12 days. I missed yesterday because I knew I needed a break. I hope I can get right back to it.

I do not have a struggle with any emotional issues that I know of. Mine has mostly been mental seeking to overcome physical. Either way T, thank you for today’s post and always keeping us interested and motivated. Going to get back to being an active reader as well.

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Jul 12, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I love to run! At 72 it is a big part of my "my health regime".....but I am also a procrastinator so many times I put off my run......only to realize how much I love the time to myself and how good it makes me feel..........I have joined challenges, running groups on Facebook.........always finding motivation and tips.........conversations with men and women of all ages, in places all over the world, all at different ability levels, it is encouraging to me.....and sometimes I get to be the encourager...........weather, air quality, life........it all seems to get in the way but for some reason running makes it all much more tolerable!!! Please give yourself a chance to enjoy a run!!! Slow or fast, it does not matter.........Just do it!!! Each and every runner has their own motivation.......find yours and "run" with it...........Blessings!!!

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Jul 11, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I didn't start running until my mid 50s. It started when i saw a running plan in a Sams club flyer to run a 5k. The key to get me started was it was basic and started slow. I thought I'll try this. My only goal was to complete the 5k. I didn't have any desire to keep it up after that 5k. But I am still signing up for runs. It is the only thing that gets me out the door.

My friend, who lives 3000 miles away, and and I meet in various places to run half marathons, from San Diego to Dublin, Ireland. Finding fun runs is a good motivater too.

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Jul 10, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Set goals and get started.

Begin with distance goals & number of runs per week appropriate to your level of conditioning. Start small and keep building. If you plan three runs per week make sure you do them, and if you’re not able to go the distance you planned on one of those runs, no worries, what is important is that you tried – consistency is key. If you are consistent, you will get stronger, you will make your distances, your confidence will grow, and the addiction will begin my friend 😊. I think it was a “chore” for everyone when they started, but if you keep at it, eventually it turns into a joy. You will start looking forward to every run, you will plan to be at your best for your long runs, then your first 10K, then your first Half – OMG! the amazing energy you will feel when running alongside of thousands of fellow runners! By the time you get to your first Half you will have left the depression far behind you. Every run, every goal met, the time spent outdoors – they all chip away at the depression until it is gone (I speak from experience).

Set goals and get started.

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Jul 10, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I have a really stressful life - you would think that being a ranch hand is pretty laid back, but no, it's a tough life - so running with my dogs every morning is my favorite time of the day. But, it didn't reach that point overnight. Sooner or later everyone struggles with getting their tired feet out the door and down the trail. Some of the things that have helped me are the simplest: treat yourself to a good pair of running shoes or a good set of headphones. Make playlists to listen to as you go or find a good audiobook. For Father's Day my granddaughter picked out some new running shirts and shorts and you would be amazed how much more I look forward to kitting up just because of that. Silly, but it;s true.

And, as others have mentioned, sign up for a race. Start with a 5K or 10K fun run and commit to going the distance. Don't worry about your time, just about participating and finishing. You will be amazed at how proud you are of the Tee-shirt or pint glass you receive or how good that after race beverage is going to taste. And, like a lot of us, you might discover that you really enjoy running events.

Hang in there!

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Jul 10, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Completely resonates with me. Start small...walk/jog for 5 minutes! I remember a few years ago when I had fallen into one of my episodic depressions...I literally said "walk over to the gym and look at the weights, that will be a start"....then, "jog for 3 minutes and see how you do". Both activities motivated me to go back the next day.

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Jul 10, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Movement is the key whether it be walking tip toeing shuffle like you are dancing get your body moving and soon the movement won’t suck baby steps help

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Most people HATE t

Go run... It's boring, I'm going to ruin my knees and after a block or two, I feel like I'm going to DIE!

The most common problem, is that they start off running. If you've NEVER run, you need to walk until your body is ready to jog and then finally run...and for just in spurts to start.

Most people quit because they try to do too much too fast.

Find someone to walk with after dinner... wife girl friend or a neighbor... listen to music or a book on tape, it'll get your mind off what you're doing... go slow and work your way up to a mile...

Reward yourself with a diet ice pop or yogurt ...

First of all though... see your doctor before you even lace up your sneakers... you need to be healthy enough to even start... The last thing you want to do is die of a heart attack or of an asthma attack...

And, in the end you may hate it... but you at least need to give a shot... millions of people can't all be wrong ...

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Jul 10, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Start with putting your running shoes on. Tell yourself you are going on a warm up walk. When you hit the first downhill, slowly jog down. Walk up the hills and jog down. Even if you only run for 5 minutes, your heart rate is up! And don't beat yourself up! Start with SMALL goals :) If you want company, join a local "running" club. There are often a wind range of ages and speeds. Lots of people want to start slow in those groups. Good Luck!

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Jul 10, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I have suffered from depression all my life and take daily medication for bipolar disorder. The essence of depression is not to move. Running works for me. Depression hates everything but press through it or try another activity like cycling or swimming for example. For me, I love running.

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Most people agree that the best exercise is the one you will do consistently. Assuming one “hated” running before depression set in, then perhaps running will never be your heathy choice of exercise. Perhaps it is time to try an alternative like yoga, hiking, Tai chi or gardening. The very fact the reader is asking for suggestions is a great sign and perhaps an indication that an exercise buddy could be a first step toward a healthier lifestyle. Sometimes there is no substitute for a friend to partner with. If that is a problem, try and hire a personal trainer and start a professional, health inspiring regimen Paying for a good coach will motivate many to get out of bed and be accountable. If none of these suggestions appeal to the reader, please seek out professional counseling to help you start feeling better. Although exercise can be the best medicine, it may not address the root of the problem and there are many qualified professionals who can help you ... !!!

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Jul 10, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I would say take the pressure off to lose weight and get healthy, just find a way to enjoy activity whatever it may be. The goal is happiness; better health is a side effect. Also figure out what feels rewarding like being in nature or finishing a race. Again the happiness thing.

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Jul 10, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

The best thing for me is to sign up for a race, it always motivates me to get out and run. Although like a lot of people were saying, the depression part should probably be treated first, as it's gonna be really hard to run consistently.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I would offer to go with her. And then run and talk, talk, talk. Best therapy ever. But she may need medical attention too.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

this is an important thread. the writer mentioned the possibility of depression. depression can stop anyone in their tracks. sometimes, medicine or therapy will help jumpstart the motivation. honestly, when i lose my motivation, i let it guide me for awhile. more often than not, it's my body sending secret messages to my brain telling me to slow down. i look to my running group to sustain me and i have learned to branch out with other forms of exercise. take one day at a time. and stay with that for awhile. then, take two days.. and so on. you will get there once ur head and heart are on same channel.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Hate to say it, but money invested, be it an entry fee or a course on Running or Walking Technique does it for me! It might not do it for others, Not ever being rich, I've made every penny count. . . ego, running, which is free!

I love going out, sometimes in the cold it is hard, but I feel so much better. Many times I run a LOT, LOT farther than I had planned. There is a certain joy and freedom that I crave from ordinary life, and running gives me that satisfaction

To get someone else out is hard. My daughter used to run with me. Now she walks short distances with her friend, which is OK. I think they have to make up their mind to do what they want to do, that is enjoyable, and stick with it.. . . its almost a spiritual effort.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Yeah, it is all about just getting out there and getting it done. there are times when i start out on a run that I planned and after I get started my mind and body say "I can't do this maybe instead of my 4 or 5 mile run I'll do two." I have to say that if I stick with it because I need that run I always am glad after that I stuck out the whole run instead of part of it.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I would ask my friend to speak to her primary doctor & get a referral for a therapist. If she admits to depression it’s better to tackle that. With the pandemic we have seen to many adults and minors with problems.

I would offer to set up a time to walk with the friend. This will help to start a healthy life style. If the person was never a runner or been away getting a good walking pace going & build confidence. Also Doug Galloway’s book on Run/ Walking, is very good. I practice that method of running. I wish this person much courage to face life’s difficulties one step at a time.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Yes, tough as Kel says. How do you explain nirvana? I guess I'd keep with "stick with it, it'll change your life!" Because they will know that feeling every single time after our bodies warm - you know when you're in the zone on auto-pilot and only then you really enjoy the nature, scenery - the sights, the sounds, the air and your body within it.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

its tough. a sentence i saw a long time ago i really like: "the hardest first steps to take are the ones out your front door". once you are able to do that the rest is easier. perhaps they have someone they could run with. my running partner always says if i didn't show up she probably would be still in bed lol.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Ten years ago or so I stopped running. Why? Because I crossed a finish line and no one was there to congratulate me. No husband or kids. Ok, I told them not to come it was a local half, still I was upset. Got home and hung up the shoes. Why was I out there doing it? I needed that break, that break to help me find an activity I enjoyed and did for me. Like other commenters, for fun, pleasure, friendship, no guilt, its my time now and I love it. Find an activity that you enjoy and go have fun.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I’ve been running pretty consistently since the mid 90’s and When I’ve been “unmotivated “ to get out the door regularly and want to be inspired I volunteer to help at a local race. There is nothing more exciting and motivating than watching all types of runners/ walkers out there getting it done! And you are also providing a valuable service to the group putting on the event. It’s a good way to get involved in the local running community.

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For me, I lost a little weight (like 20 lbs) by eating/drinking differently for a couple years (and NOT doing much exercise beyond walking), after which I found running (mostly out of desperation, during covid) and surprised myself by enjoying it & getting hooked. Running wasn't "fun" like other things are fun, but there was a kind of sweet/painful pleasure to the exertion and solitude.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

More than 50 years after first watching it, this still never fails to put a smile on my face and I hope it does the same for you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4fc74snmK8 .

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

It's been a hard year. Have grace for yourself. Talk to someone you trust. Find help for the depression - it's okay to need help. We all need help throughout our lives.

And ask a friend to help you be accountable to exercising and getting outdoors (which should help bring some relief in the depression dept). Is there another type of exercise you'd enjoy more? Find something you like, and it'll feel like less of a chore.

For me personally when I'm not feeling like running, I at least get out and walk. Get some sunshine and fresh air, and it's still activity. Baby steps - do SOMETHING good for yourself, eat SOMETHING healthy for you. Skip the unhealthy snack and have a piece of fruit instead. Small changes like that, that feel doable.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Lots of good advice here. It sounds like our fellow runner is motivated to lose weight and be healthy, so the question is how to do it. Many roads lead to Rome, as they say. Perhaps use some time walking or jogging in nature -- but watch out for the rocks and roots -- to think about what exactly you dislike about running, and how you could change things to make it more enjoyable. A running buddy/group? More on trails, less on streets? Run/walk instead of all running? Forgetting about any particular pace and just going for a certain amount of time or distance? Switching to a different sport that you enjoy more? Or alternating running with that sport? And remembering that the activity will get easier as you do it longer and it becomes part of your routine, and you lose that weight and get healthier. Also, it's not school or the military; you don't HAVE to do it. So many other sports to choose from. I hated running too for many years, although I kept coming back to it as cross training for other sports, or just because....just because. But it never stuck. Then a few years ago in my late 50's I tried it again and liked it. I don't even know why. But now I love it.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I would tell them not to run. They don't love running--they don't even like it--so why run? Plenty of other ways to be active. Find something you enjoy doing and do that. Walk, hike, cycle, kayak . . . life is too short to do stuff you don't like that you don;t have to do.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

As many have said, joining a group or getting a walking/ running partner. It really helps get you out the door when you are meeting with others. The group I run with is awesome and we have great conversations on our long runs. We have developed some very strong and lasting friendships. We keep each other going just by being there.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

What's really cool is the fact that this thread has gotten so much attention. To me this reinforces the advice I have in mind, which is also a common theme that I see in many of these replies: find someone to run with, or at least someone you can text right after your run (or a club, or a FB group, or a Strava club) and they will say "Good job!". And then do this every single day. Also start small, really small ... like really small. Walk/run for one mile per day, and do that for a week. Then see how you feel, and increase the activity the following week (but just a little bit!).

The key is to do this everyday and surround yourself with a supportive community. The consistency will help you break the depression cycle and before you know it, you'll be running 5k's with a bunch of other crazy runners! Be good to yourself - you deserve it!

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I agree with so much of the advice here. I wouldn't be the runner I am today without an exercise partner for the first several years until it became a habit and something I enjoy doing. But here's a mindset that I've come across lately that is helpful for me. If going out and running several miles seems overwhelming to your motivation, what could you wrap your mind around to go out and do? Could you walk for 5 minutes? Run 1 mile? It doesn't matter how small or large your goal for the day is. What will get you out the door? If 5 miles seems like too much that day, that's OK. Just do something. Once you get out the door, you might find the motivation to go further than you had planned. And if not, that's OK too. Start by building the habit of getting out the door, no matter how big or small the activity is that comes after that.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

May not be the popular answer on this site, but running is not the all there be there. Where is it that you do find motivation? Start with what is your goal, being healthy and losing weight? Start slow understand that it will take time and there will be stumbles along the way. Find your way to a group to share your path. My own journey took over a year to lose 100 pounds and find my way to distance jogging. Can not call what i do running. But now it has become a regular part of my daily life through a natural progression that started by joining a gym and going every day to do something. Met people there that i could relate to. The pandemic took us outside to a local park for walks and then jogs. The journey is what life is about, not the goal. It starts with just one step and there is no need to define an end.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I have had the same problem. I do triathlons so running is a big part of my training. I have gone to the Run-Walk-Run method and find it to be great. It allows you to walk and run and not be out of breath when you finish your training. It actually became fun to see how well I could do. I used this method doing a half-marathon and finished with a time of 2:39. Plus, I wasn't tired and I felt like I could have done another 10 miles. At the time, I was 75. When I get the " Oh I'll run tomorrow" feeling, I force myself to put on my running clothes and get out the door. Once out there, it all changes and I my mind goes to running. Remember, we all get the "Blahs" every now and then.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I know that I go on about this here frequently, but have you considered joining a run group in your area? Most running stores either have a training group or know of a group or two in the area. I run with Fleet Feet in the Cleveland, OH area and we do have to pay to participate. That does give me some incentive to get out there so I'm not wasting my money. Maybe get a friend to join as well to give you some extra accountability. If you can make running a bit of a social thing you may find it to be more enjoyable. Also, getting out there regularly can really help if you are depressed and having some accountability to a friend or group may be enough to help you get out the door. If you decide that running truly is something that you hate then maybe find a different form of exercise. There are so many things you can be doing. I love Jillian Michaels' workout programs. She has an app that includes most of her dvd workouts as well as app specific programs. You can get a free 2 week trial. Finally, if you feel that your depression is not getting any better please talk to your doctor so that they can evaluate your symptoms. You can work with them to find what kind of treatment you might need.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I was 25 lb overweight and came home from work one day and said, “I’m sick of Dunlop disease.” I found lacing up and walking the neighborhood got me going … saying “Hi” to neighbors, neighbors kids, even delivery folks and anyone else who was “around”. No music … just fresh air (I’m in South Florida). Started eating right (snacking on veggies, not chips … not cold Turkey but the occasional chips were “rewards”. Added miles to the walks and mixed in swimming. It’s not easy but the focus on the end goal (I was 189 and wanted to get to 164 … on a 5’-7” frame. Find a sport, or exercise YOU like. I got into 5K, 10K, half marathons long after I got to the weight I wanted to be at … the commaraderie of the races is what I love. For you, find your “happy place”!

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I totally agree about using others to keep you accountable, with anything you do. And until you at least start liking (or at least stop hating) running, find some other form of exercise. About the depression, please talk to somebody. For me, taking that first step was harder than my first 5k.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Love the topic. Motivation is the secret sauce and it is so different for everyone. Trying to find what motivates different people is interesting to me. Really cool to hear other people's ideas and suggestions.

I put a lot of pressure on myself so any external pressure doesn't improve my performance.

Lately running has felt like a chore for me as well. I think I am mostly motivated by the feeling afterward. I feel happy, energetic and have a clear mind. I need exercise to fight depression.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Allow yourself to be unmotivated, but still realize you want to move forward in running. Try not to compare yourself to others out running, try not to label yourself. Easy to try, but difficult to achieve sometimes start with a deep breath in and then out to release your current thoughts.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Give yourself permission to start slow. Short distances at a slow pace; likely walk/run. Consider it to be more a time of play and a chance to get away from the stresses of the day, rather than exercise. I often run at lunchtime and try to think of it in the same way that I thought of gym class in elementary school. Was it exercise? Sure. But the focus was on play. Try to think of running in much the same way. If you find that it stays a grind, explore other sports like cycling, weight training, etc. We are all different and have different tastes for exercise. I’m a runner. It’s what I do. Put me in a gym and it’s torture. However, I know many folks who see it the exact opposite. It’s important to find something that you enjoy and then find a compelling reason to do it. I’m a competitor and enjoy the competitive aspects of running. Not everyone does, so you need to discover what works for you. If any exercise is only painful and boring it’s highly unlikely that you will stay with it.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

If one is heck-bent on running (vs. doing an activity they enjoy more), I’d suggest Galloway-style intervals and a buddy system to keep accountable. And baby steps… no sense trying to tackle more than you are currently equipped to handle.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

This is so me. But I also know that the reason I hate it right now is because I let my self get completely out of shape. I've gained weight and haven't ran in months. With that being said, I'm back at it as of this week doing walk/run combo. I also have to agree with Laura tho, if you really hate it, you need to fine something else. A fitness class, walking with a neighbor, etc. And remember this... 1 mile is a mile no matter how you get there. Maybe focus on steps in a day and increase.

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I look at it a little differently, I would ask myself what I would rather be doing. If it is an activity that is good for me than do that, if it is destructive you need to ask yourself why you want to do it. Once you remove all of the destructive things you might find a place for running, else something that makes you happy. Also, what part of running do you not enjoy. If you want to commit to running it needs to be a habit or an enjoyment.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

Walk, start with small goals, something doable, if I knew you I'd join you! Being outside with nature is a happy place for me, it brings me joy and walking is what saved my sanity in 2020. See a doctor if depression is a concern, your mental health is so important! 💜

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I would tell them to dig deep as deep as it takes to get out there the first time and just get the first run in then from there on it’s a peace of cake after the first week it gets easier one day at a time , go get it and u will love how it makes us feel ,Mark

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

My first response is if you hate something that much I would discontinue doing it and find another activity that brings you joy. That said, running is tough and challenging but that feeling afterwards is what keeps me going. I would look deeper into what it is exactly that you dislike about it and see if there’s a way to make that aspect more enjoyable. Is it boredom? I love using the Peloton app outdoor for inspiration and variety. Maybe a walk/run combo might make it more palatable also or finding a running buddy to pass the time. Hope that helps!

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I will not say much (besides the “you got this” and the “you’re amazing” speeches), but one thing I’ll do is to go running with him/her EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. If I have to go back out to do my running routine, so be it. I’m, actually, doing it at the moment. I jog with a colleague at noon who’s struggling with weight/mental health. After work, I go out again to do my thing.

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Jul 9, 2021Liked by Terrell Johnson

I have to admit... I don't love running... I like it, but I don't love it. For me to keep motivated, I run with either a partner or a group. They not only keep me motivated, but hold me accountable... I know that someone is waiting for me so I make sure I show up to run, plus they often act as a sounding board when I need to talk about things. Now with races coming back, that also adds a bit of motivation... good luck friend, find your mojo

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