Running outside

JoJo1404

Need a little advice...

I train int he gym at least 4 times a week which would consist of either a 5k run on the tradmil at 10 incline and 1 gradient or 30 mins on the cross trainer, 2 mins fast 1 min rest at a good pace, ontop of the weights I do I also partake in a spinning class 3 times a week for 45 mins.

My fitness is great but really want to start training outside and would love to do a mini marathon this year...my problem in when it comes to running outside I have no motivation and dont push myself as hard as I would normally in the gym and cant run as long...

Has anyone any tips or suggestions?

Thanks a million.

*Angel*

I'd say the best way to start is by finding a route to run. Try: http://www.mapmyrun.com it's a good website to map routes in your area. If you're use to running 5k on a treadmill maybe start with a slightly shorter distance as running outside can be a bit harder. Also I'd recommend finding a single loop so that you have a finish rather than doubling up so you'll be less likely to quit halfway through.

Sitric

My GF has started running outside recently, she made herself playlists of songs for the ipod, all between certain beats per minute and she knows how long each play list is so can keep herself going along with it. The advice from angel is good too and maybe try not to have too many long straight stretches in your route, it makes things boring at the beginning, variety helps

*Angel*

Ah how could I forget music! Definitely as said above, a good idea to have some playlists or upbeat music to play as you run. One of the best things I ever bought for running was my headphones: Headphones linky they're awesome for running, they stay perfectly put so annoying fidgeting to keep them in place is avoided

Sitric

Are they decent? I actually stopped using an ipod when running at all because I kept having to stop/slow down to put headphones back in ears!

BlueIsland

JoJo1404 wrote: »

Need a little advice...

I train int he gym at least 4 times a week which would consist of either a 5k run on the tradmil at 10 incline and 1 gradient or 30 mins on the cross trainer, 2 mins fast 1 min rest at a good pace, ontop of the weights I do I also partake in a spinning class 3 times a week for 45 mins.

My fitness is great but really want to start training outside and would love to do a mini marathon this year...my problem in when it comes to running outside I have no motivation and dont push myself as hard as I would normally in the gym and cant run as long...

Has anyone any tips or suggestions?

Thanks a million.

dont know if it same for everyone but reason people have less motivationj for outside is simply cos its harder!! bottom line- the threadmill is a great tool but a second best to the actions and movements you make with your body running outside!! I tired to do my running prep for a football season two years ago inside on threadmill. was going great. first session on field, two mile run, second last. added to the difficulty though is also a much better sense of achievement. id feel better two miles outside than five miles on threadmill. to get you big time into running outside decide to go maybe twice a week outdoors. say two thirsty minutes. first week go for maybe one minute on, one minute off or two on two off. i always find making a taret like that really helps motivation

connundrum

If you have an iPhone/itouch then get an app called RunKeeper. Best motivational tool I've come across

injured365

Sitric wrote: »

Are they decent? I actually stopped using an ipod when running at all because I kept having to stop/slow down to put headphones back in ears!

Ive been using these ones for over a year now. Havent had any problem unless im doing sprints

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Mdr-As20J-Active-Headphones-Hangers/dp/B0015AHRFK/ref=pd_cp_e_3

*Angel*

Sitric wrote: »

Are they decent? I actually stopped using an ipod when running at all because I kept having to stop/slow down to put headphones back in ears!

I find them perfect, although I do have a small head so not sure if they'd work as well for a guy!

Nervouspriest

I always find running on a treadmill more difficult than running outside. On the treadmill it gets boring, at least outside there is distractions which I find makes it easier to run outside, just change your route regularly so you don't get bored.

I might get those headphones on this thread, very annoying when an earphone falls out...nearly as annoying as your lace opening if its not tied properly whilst running!!

JoJo1404

Thanks a million for the advice guys... Excellent tips there