7 Ways To Stop You Hating Running, According To An Expert

1. Set small goals

You might find it easier to run if you have a destination or goal in mind, but think small to begin with. ‘Set yourself an easy, manageable target – go slow and go somewhere,’ suggests Tyler. ‘Find an environment that’s pleasing to you. Maybe there’s a local park you like, or you want to get a train to somewhere like London’s Hampstead Heath.’

He adds, ‘Even if you walk for the majority of your workout, try to run part of it. Don’t compare yourself to other people – the only person you should be in competition with is yourself.’

2. Finesse your footwear

For Tyler, the most important preparation is to find a good pair of running shoes. ‘People run in a pair of Van plimsolls, then say their feet are killing them. You want to make your early runs as enjoyable an experience as you can, so you need the right footwear.’

Tyler recommends opting for supportive trainers over style. ‘You don’t have to break the bank. Go to a shop and explain that you’re new to running – they’ll be able to help you.’

3. Don’t layer up too much

It’s natural to get sweaty during any form of exercise, but if you’re overheating, the solution could be simple. ‘You need to think about your run 20 minutes in,’ says Tyler. ‘People tell me they get too hot, but that’s because they’re wearing too many layers. You might be cold for the first few minutes of your run, but you’re going to warm up after 10 or 15 minutes.’

4. Create a community

Nothing will keep you motivated like a buddy. Text a mate to keep you accountable or join a run club. While Tyler admits Instagram run clubs can feel intimidating, he encourages people to find one that suits them. ‘There are so many out there for different types of people. We have a programme for getting underrepresented people into running with coaches who look like them, plus there are clubs to support people with their mental health and more,’ he says.

5. Tune in, but turn it down

If you prefer running on your own, or just don’t want to chat when in a group, turn up the volume to keep you motivated. ‘Because running is my job, I like to run alone after work. I take the same route and zone out with some tunes to motivate me – if my running headphones run out of battery, I won’t run,’ Tyler says.

However, for beginners, Tyler recommends turning the music down to hear yourself breathe. ‘When you’re running for the first time, you want to regulate your breathing, listening to make sure it’s consistent. You’re only going to be able to do that if you can hear it,’ he says.

Tyler has been running The Outrunners since 2020

6. Stretch it out

Just like with any exercise, a warm-up is essential before a run. ‘Do some dynamic stretches, lunges and moves that activate your glutes and hamstrings,’ Tyler says. As for a cool-down, he suggests the pigeon pose to stretch out your quads, as well as stretching out your shoulders and arms. ‘You hold a lot of tension in your upper back.’

7. Work with the weather

As we head into winter, it can be harder to find the motivation to get outdoors, or even to the treadmill. Tyler encourages people to be prepared with breathable winter running gear, such as running gloves, and plan your run time if you don’t want to head out in the dark. ‘Having something to train for – like a race in the spring – can push you to keep running,’ he adds.

Movember and L’Oréal Men Expert are challenging men to give running with friends a try this November. It can be as simple as sending a text. You can find local running clubs at England Athletics’ RunTogether website.

Ready to tackle some important conversations? Visit Movember for advice and an interactive practice conversation tool. And whatever you’re going through, Samaritans are here to listen 24/7. Call free on 116 123.

 Isabella is a freelance journalist who has written on young women’s issues, entertainment, TV and film, South Asian representation, mental health, dating and so much more. She has bylines in ELLE, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, Prima, Digital Spy, Women’s Health, and Harper’s Bazaar, and was named 30 Under 30 by MediaWeek, PPA and We Are The City. She was also shortlisted for Workplace Hero at the Investing In Ethnicity Awards and Hero of the Year at the European Diversity Awards. Follow Isabella on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.