10 Bad Excuses Not To Run

Whether we’re beginner or experienced runners—or contemplating starting—every now and then we all find a reason not to run. But there are reasons and then there are excuses. “An injury is a real reason not to run,” says Arizona-based Dean Hebert, a certified running coach and author of Coach, I Didn’t Run Because…. “That’s different than an excuse of a little ache.” Here are some pointers to help you get through the negative chatter in your head—and step out your front door for some serious calorie burning.

1. “I’m not a morning person; it’s too hard to get out of bed.”

You don’t have to run first thing in the morning, says Hebert. Just do whatever works for you, whether that’s running during your lunch hour or after work. And if your schedule is tight in the evening, here’s what Edmonton-based John Stanton, founder of The Running Room and author of four books on running, suggests: “Suck it up for a couple of weeks. You’ll find that the mind and the body adapt quickly.”

2. “My exercise partner is away this week.”

This can be a problem if going with a friend keeps you motivated. But think of running as you do a task at work, suggests Toronto career and life coach Cecile Peterkin. “Look at what you will do to deliver on the project.” You could take your dog or your neighbour’s dog with you, or join a running group for the week.

3. “I’m too old for it.”

If you’re concerned about your age, know that running will help you live longer. Harvard University research shows that for every hour of exercise you do, you gain approximately two hours of life. Of course, if you’re just starting out, talk to your doctor first.

4. “I’m getting my period; I feel achy, bloated and tired.”

There’s no question: This is a very real thing, says Hebert. But exercise actually helps relieve many of these symptoms. Also, Peterkin suggests telling yourself: “I’m going for a run. If after 10 minutes I’m still miserable, I’ll go home, but I’ll run for at least 10 minutes.”

5. “I always get a stitch in my side.”

This can happen if you don’t wait 30 minutes after eating a meal, says Hebert. But he adds that, for many people, running after something light—such as some cereal or a sandwich—is fine. Stanton recommends ensuring your posture is good, running tall and watching how you’re breathing. “Start your run easy and build intensity. Purse your lips and concentrate on breathing out—like a swimmer—and relax your breathing.” If that doesn’t help, don’t give up on running. Hebert says experienced runners don’t get side stitches as often as novices do, so run or walk through the pain and it will disappear.

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