10 Bad Excuses Not To Run

6. “Running clubs are expensive, and my friends aren’t interested in running.”

“It’s time to put yourself first,” says Peterkin, who recommends getting a free trial of a running club before committing. “Take this opportunity to meet people with similar interests. Who knows—if you join the club, your friends may follow when they see how much fun you’re having.” Stanton adds that you can meet a group at a Running Room in your area on Wednesdays and Sundays for a free practice.

7. It’s too hot out. It’s too cold out. It’s raining.”

The weather is out of your control, so you will have to succumb to Mother Nature and dress appropriately. There is some amazing clothing technology out there, and it’s worth the investment for your health. “What happens if you get three to four straight days of rain? You won’t work out for four days?” says Hebert. “Get tough and get out there. Enjoy it.” And remember that there are lots of other people out running who haven’t let the weather stop them—so you definitely won’t be on your own!

8. “I don’t feel safe running alone.”

This is a valid concern, and there is certainly no point in compromising your safety, so be smart. “What do you do in other situations when you don’t feel safe?” asks Peterkin. Be cautious, and consider getting a friend or family member to ride their bike alongside you. Bring your cellphone, and if it’s before sunrise or after dark, run only in areas that are well lit. And you might want to leave your personal music player at home; you should be able to hear what’s going on around you.

9. “I have a blister.”

“Lance and drain the blister with a sterile needle, then coat the area with Polysporin and a layer of Second Skin or Liquid Bandage,” says Stanton. Then you’re good to go. And be sure to wear the right shoes: You’ll need running shoes, which are roomier than cross-trainers. (Blisters mean there is increased friction between your foot and the shoe.)

10. “It hurts my boobs.”

There are two reasons why this could be happening: Either your bra doesn’t have enough support, or else it’s too loose. So invest in a properly fitting sports bra. (Some women even find that wearing two sports bras at the same time solves the problem.) If that doesn’t work, a shelf bra flattens your chest to help prevent movement. Or try an encapsulation bra—it moulds and supports each breast. The point is, there is so much choice in bras on the market these days. To prevent chafing, running coaches recommend using Body Glide or medical tape on the nipples and under the bra straps.

–

Post Submitted by: Julie Deol

1 2