It’s safe to say the London Marathon this weekend has inspired lots of us to grab our running shoes and get outside today.
But, according to new statistics, there’s a large group of people who are still pretty anxious to do so.
According to new research, a third of Brits (31%) wish they had a better running style which didn’t leave them feeling so self-conscious.
In fact, the study carried out by Jack Link’s also found that 20% think they have a ‘silly run’ – but, unlike Phoebe from Friends, they are letting it get in the way of them doing so.
With the warmer months approaching and the days getting longer, it’s the perfect time to start running – but if embarrassment is holding you back, experts share a few ways to help push through.
Think about your goals
When you first start running in public, it’s easy to become preoccupied with thoughts of what others are thinking about your style.
And when these fears arise, it’s easy to forget why you want to start running in the first place. Maybe you’ve always wanted to do a half marathon? Or simply want to run to help de-stress?
Whether it’s for personal targets, fitness, or mental health, Joanna Dase – a fitness expert at Curves – says to envision yourself achieving these goals and how much better you will feel after you have completed the run.
She explains: ‘By using positive affirmations to shift your focus away from negative thoughts and concentrating on the feeling of accomplishment, you can remind yourself that the benefits and rewards of your hard work are far more important than anyone’s judgement.’
Get confidence-boosting gear
While it might feel like you have all the gear and no idea, if you feel good in your running outfit it’s likely this will help you more confident on the run itself.
Life coach and mentor Natalie Trice says: ‘Do invest in decent shoes and kit because, not only will they help your running, but they will help you to feel the part. If you dust off a batter old pair of plimsolls and run in baggy yoga pants, you won’t feel that great.
‘You don’t need to spend a fortune but it’s amazing how differently you will feel if you have the right gear and get in the headspace of owning your running.’
Run with someone else
If you’re new to running, heading out with a friend – or even joining a running club – can help you gain confidence.
Joanna says: ‘Having someone beside you running may also provide you with a sense of comfort (until you feel confident enough to go alone) as well as conservation – which serves as a distraction from negative thoughts.’
Distract yourself
Speaking of distractions, if your mind is busy thinking about something else, you’re less likely to focus on feeling self-conscious.
Joanna says: ‘Listening to music or a podcast while running can be an effective way to distract yourself from self-conscious thoughts and negative feelings that may arise while running in public.
‘Music can be particularly motivating and energising, while podcasts can be educational and informative, making your run more engaging. By focusing on the audio, you’ll be less likely to be distracted by your surroundings and the people around you.
‘This can help you to stay in the present moment and enjoy your run to the fullest.’
Choose less-crowded routes
Picking a route through a less-crowded area, or at a time when things won’t be as busy, is a good idea as a starting point.
Joanna says: ‘Not only does this relieve the anxiety of feeling like others are watching you in a busy public area, but it also gives you the chance to unwind and fully take in your surroundings.
‘Running in locations such as the seaside, countryside or woodlands can give you peace. Alternatively, you can challenge yourself and make your runs more exciting by experimenting with different routes and terrains.’
Remember people will forget
As much as we love to have main character energy, the reality is that the strangers you pass in the street will not remember you running.
Joanna continues: ‘The majority of people you encounter while running are unlikely to notice you or pay attention your running style.
‘Think about it – how many people do you go by every day and how many of those people do you truly remember? Often, people are so wrapped up in their own lives, they won’t acknowledge when you run past. If they do notice you’re running, they likely won’t have enough time to scrutinise your running style.
‘Remind yourself that you’re doing something good for your health and are entitled to use public spaces just as much as other people, so there’s no need to feel self-conscious about taking a jog.’
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