Buzz
Starting the second week of my month-long challenge to genuinely enjoy running, I wasn’t holding my breath for any miracles. Even though I’m generally an active person, my initial attempt at running was far from successful. However, I managed to pick up a few tips and adjustments that helped me reach a point where, while I still don’t love running, I dislike it a little less than I did a week ago when I was seriously doubting my decision to take on this experiment.
To everyone who suggested the Zombies, Run! app, I owe you my gratitude. One of the reasons I enjoy using my elliptical at home is the ability to watch mindless TV while working out, so I assumed running without any form of entertainment would feel even more tedious. Surprisingly, embarking on “missions” to collect supplies and save survivors from a zombie apocalypse—while occasionally listening to music between urgent updates from base—has been a game-changer for me. The desire to uncover the next chapter of the story gives me just enough motivation to lace up my shoes and head outside.
I also realized why my first run last week was so grueling. Somehow, it didn’t click for me at the time or even afterward, but I began that run by going uphill. No wonder it felt like such a struggle!
Living in a hilly area that I often walk through, I never really considered the terrain much. But who, in their right mind, would start their first run in over ten years by heading uphill? (Apparently, me.) No wonder my ankles were protesting so fiercely.
This week, I decided to use the hill strategically, as someone who actually wants to think through their approach. I began with a five-minute brisk walk uphill to warm up and get my heart rate up. Then, I alternated between running and walking on flat ground, finishing with a downhill stretch. As the terrain became easier, the effort increased, and I felt pretty proud of my plan.
Using the hill as a warm-up seemed to ease the strain on my ankles during the run. I was also relieved that the intense soreness lasting three days after my first run didn’t come back.
I had planned to run at least three times this week, but life got in the way, so I only managed two runs. Still, that’s double what I did last week. I’ve also decided not to limit myself to just running this month. I want to continue enjoying other physical activities I love, so it doesn’t feel like I’m needlessly punishing myself. The ultimate goal isn’t to make running my sole form of exercise but to see it as a convenient and enjoyable option I can turn to regularly.
I’ve been tracking my running “moods” on a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means, “Absolutely hate this,” and 1 means, “I love running!” This week, I ended with a neutral 3. While I didn’t enjoy the run in the moment, I felt stronger and accomplished afterward, which I consider a win.
Next week, I aim to complete three runs, with at least one on a picturesque trail. This week, my longest run/walk was just over 20 minutes, so pushing that to 25 minutes would mark solid progress. I’m also hoping that at least one run will score a “two” on my mood chart, indicating a more enjoyable experience.
