Six lies you’ll tell yourself to avoid running

The annual Hollard Joburg Urban Race Adventure (Jura) is around the corner.

Many who may want to participate will have doubts from the start and start looking for some kind of catalyst to get off that couch and kickstart a new active lifestyle.

But as you go about your day, there are those deceptive little whispers that begin to creep into your mind with words like, ‘I’m too tired’ and ‘I’ll just hit the snooze button one more time’.

Today, we’re shutting down those little voices and debunking the top excuses that stop you from running.

‘It’s way too early in the morning’

A key way to get yourself up is having something positive to do. A hobby like running, and all the benefits that come with it, could be the perfect carrot on the stick to get you out of bed. Try it.

After a few minutes of warm-up, you’ll already feel like you’re four cups of coffee deep and the memories of your bed will just be an afterthought.

‘Running isn’t really for me’

While some exercises may require fancy equipment, personal trainers or crazy supplements, running doesn’t ask much of you. Know how to tie your laces? Check. Know how to walk? Double check. Congratulations, you are a qualified runner.

‘The weather is too [insert any weather forecast here]’

We are the same species that put a man on the moon, and yet we allow ourselves to be left paralysed by a few little drops of precipitation.

A bit of drizzle on race morning? Try that dry mac that doesn’t pair well with anything else in your closet.

Chilly? maybe those new thermal tights could finally get some fresh air. For every forecast, there is an outfit. And now for every excuse, there is an answer.

‘I’m just so lazy’

Piles of work and deadlines is not an excuse since running could, in fact, be the solution. It’s tough in the beginning but after a while, you’ll feel your energy levels increase.

More energy equals more exercise, more exercise means a happier, more motivated you.

‘I’m too self-conscious’

The best thing about exercise is that it’s proven to help boost self-esteem and feelings of self-worth. Feeling your legs getting stronger and your kilometres growing longer will remind you how amazing your body is no matter what it’s shape or size.

‘I don’t have time’

When something really important comes up, we find a way to fit it into our schedule, whether it be that new bar we want to go check out or shopping for those shoes you’ve had your eye on.
So start small, even if it’s fitting in a 30-minute run around the block in the morning or afternoon, prioritise your health and you’ll never look back.

Well, if you’re looking for a fun, all fitness-levels and welcoming running event, aim for the Jura on 2 June. The Jura is a popular run through Johannesburg’s greenbelt along one of the most scenic city routes.

Experience a combination of Johannesburg’s city parks, urban elements and inflatable obstacles along two stunning 6km and 12km routes.

So circle the date on your calendar now and banish those voices. From now on, we’re strapping on our running shoes and silencing those whispers one run at a time.

Entries are now open and cost R297 for the 6km trail and R359 for the 12km.

Visit www.joziadventure.co.za to enter.

By Kelly Fraser of Nomadic Social.