Does Running Ever Get Easier? Exploring the Journey of a Runner

Introduction

Running is often portrayed as a grueling and daunting endeavor, particularly for beginners. Many of us have had that moment when we first laced up our running shoes and ventured out for a jog, only to find ourselves panting, red-faced, and questioning our life choices. For those who persist, a question inevitably arises: Does running ever get easier? In this blog post, we will explore the journey of a runner and discover that, indeed, running can become more manageable and even enjoyable with time and dedication.

1. The Early Struggles

For most new runners, the initial experiences can be incredibly challenging. The body protests as it adapts to the new demands being placed upon it. The lungs gasp for air, the legs burn, and every step can feel like a monumental effort. It's during these trying moments that many people wonder if they'll ever find joy in running. Most just say “this sucks a**, I’m not running again”.

2. Consistent Training is Key

The good news is that running does become easier with consistent training. As you gradually increase your mileage and frequency, your body adapts. Your cardiovascular system becomes more efficient at supplying oxygen to your muscles, and your muscles become more adept at using that oxygen. This improved conditioning results in increased endurance and reduced fatigue during runs.

3. Mental Toughness

Running isn't just a physical challenge; it's also a mental one. With time and experience, you become better at managing the mental aspect of running. You learn to push through discomfort, focus your thoughts, and embrace the meditative qualities of the sport. This mental toughness can make the entire experience feel less grueling. If you want to become more confident in yourself and in life, running definitely can help make this happen.

4. Improved Technique

Running with proper form can make a world of difference. Learning the correct running techniques and maintaining good posture can reduce the risk of injury and make running more efficient and less strenuous. Seeking guidance from experienced runners or coaches can be invaluable in this regard. I am a running coach and definitely can help you with this. To become a better distance runner, there are three things that you need to improve: your VO2max, your running efficiency, and your lactate (acidosis) threshold.

5. Variety and Goals

Monotony can be a motivation killer. To keep running enjoyable, mix things up. Try different terrains, vary your speed, and set goals for yourself. Running with groups is my favorite thing to keep me motivated and focused on my training. Running communities are competitive and the most supportive communities that you can join. If you are looking for a lifestyle change or to lose some weight, this is one of the best options for you. Send me an email or jump in a call and I can tell you more about our free running community! The sense of achievement when you reach your goals can make running feel easier and everything is more rewarding when you have others supporting you who know how hard you worked to achieve them.

6. Strength Training

Incorporating strength training into your routine can enhance your running performance. Stronger muscles provide better support to your body, making it more capable of handling the demands of running. This, in turn, can reduce the perceived effort of each run. It also is a great way to strengthen bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles without the repetitive forces that running has on the body adding in an addition preventative measure.

7. Rest and Recovery

Don't underestimate the importance of rest and recovery. Overtraining can make running feel much harder, and it can increase the risk of injuries. Make sure to give your body the time it needs to repair and adapt. This includes fueling your body with protein and carbohydrates after each workout and getting a minimum of 7-9 hours of sleep a night. 8-9 hours is what I recommend to my athletes and some who are intensively training I recommend up to 10 hours of quality sleep on certain nights. Performance rely’s on your ability to recover!

Conclusion

So, does running ever get easier? The answer is a resounding yes. While running may never be entirely effortless, especially at high intensities or over longer distances, it can certainly become more manageable and even enjoyable with dedication and the right approach. As your body and mind adapt to the demands of running, you'll discover that this once-daunting endeavor can become a rewarding and sustainable part of your life. I have athletes in their 80’s who squat, deadlift, and run in our training sessions. So, take that into consideration and keep lacing up those running shoes, embrace the journey, and watch as running gradually becomes a more comfortable and fulfilling experience.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out via email or book a free 15-minute call on our “get started” page and I’d love to chat with you about your goals and give you some tips to get you on the right path!

Stay Strong and Stay Healthy! 🔥✊

Dr. Jayson Dahlquist PT, DPT, CAFS, Certified Running Specialist/Coach