I Used To Hate Running, But Now I Can Run 5KM: Here’s How

Arrrgh, running. I’ll be real with you, I honestly used to hate it! Whenever I pushed myself to go for a run I'd always put myself down, thinking ‘why am I even bothering'. Thinking back, it was my ‘all or nothing’ mentality that was holding me back. I never approached running in a way that was manageable, or took steps that were suited to my fitness level. I’d go hard, run as far or as fast as I could, and burn myself out—I simply accepted that it wasn't my strength. 

I’ve learnt that it all comes down to mindset. I realised that a lot of the hatred I had for running stemmed from my comparisons. I would always compare my runs to others' and judge myself for my slow pace or having to take walking breaks. Once I stopped doing this and reminded myself that it takes time to build my fitness, I started to ‘hate’ running a little less. If you’re like me, and you have these self-limiting beliefs that you’re not a runner, trust me. I’ve learnt to flip my mindset, and I know you can too. If you are fortunate to be able to run, you can be a runner. 

Running is trending right now, and I totally get why. The runner’s high is an absolute vibe! Wanting to run your first 5km? Go you! Here’s my tips for beginner runners. 

Start Slow

Taking breaks doesn’t mean you’ve failed. I used to think that ‘going for a run’ meant that I had to head out the door and run as hard as I could, for as long as possible—big mistake! Every single run I was left feeling defeated, sore and it would take so long for my body to recover. Starting slow and learning that it’s okay to take breaks is so important. The first run in our 0-5 km KICRUN Program starts with 30 second runs and 90 second walking breaks, designed to very gradually build up your running strength and stamina. It’s not a race! 

Image credit: KIC | Supplied

Don’t Ditch Strength Training

​When you enter your running era it’s easy to get caught up in the runner’s high, and strength training can often get pushed aside. But resistance training is essential when you’re running on the reg. Make sure you incorporate a Pilates or strength session during the week to help strengthen your glutes, calves and core to get the best out of our runs, and most importantly, avoid injury! 

Join A Run Club

Run clubs are popping off right now! As beginner runners, we tend to carry a lot of self-doubt, but trust me, when you’re running together, with a supportive community, makes a world of difference to your confidence! I’ve heard so many people say ‘I can’t believe I ran that far’ and I get it, I’m so much more motivated when I’m running with our community. If you’re in Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane, our KICRUN Club meets every Saturday morning—come run with us! 

Image credit: KIC | Supplied

Consistency Is Key

We recommend three runs a week to help you gradually, safely and confidently run towards your 5 km goal. But I totally understand that life is busy, and some weeks that just isn’t possible. If you can only make time for one or two runs per week, that’s still an amazing achievement. It might just take you 10, rather than eight weeks and that’s totally fine. It’s all about finding what works for you.

Looking for an extra dose of running confidence? The KICRUN app has you covered. With programs designed to build fitness and confidence at your own pace, it’s the perfect partner for your running journey. Ready to give it a go? Learn more or start your free 7-day trial here.