7 Reasons Why Runners Quit Running

We have all heard the excuses: “My knees hurt too much.” “Running is boring.” “I like sleeping in.” These are all wonderful scapegoats for the real problem: a fundamental disconnect with the joy of running.

Photo Credit: Foxtongue

I know it sounds like hard work. Running for any length of time requires you to get off your butt and move your body.

The first 20 minutes of a run for anyone (even the pros) feels like hell sometimes.

The breakthroughs, endorphins, adrenaline and the almighty runner’s high don’t kick in until much later – long after the initial pain has passed.

To avoid quitting an activity that can transform your life – you have to connect with the beauty and simplicity of putting one foot in front of the other – over and over again.

Why Runners Quit

1. Lack of Identity

To become a runner you have to think like a runner. This doesn’t require any special skills, but it does require you to call yourself a runner even if you don’t think it’s true.

If you’re running for all the wrong reasons, running may not stick around for long. Become a runner by declaring it.

Say this out loud with me right now, “I am a runner. I am a runner. Dammit. I am a runner.”

2. Love Takes Time

I ran 5 days-a-week for months before I can actually say I liked to run. Loving to run doesn’t come easy or quick. It normally takes some time.

You have to breakthrough the initial phase of feeling like crap before the real rhythm begins.

At some point you will go out for a run and everything will work. Your energy will explode, your mental clarity will feel pristine, and your love for running will blossom.

This will happen. I promise you.

3. Running to Lose Weight

This is a myth that will probably exist forever. The ironic part is that I started running because of this – I wanted to lose weight and I thought running would do the trick.

The reality is that eating a low-fat diet and building muscle is what causes significant weight loss. Running is a cardiovascular and aerobic activity that reduces stress and makes you feel good.

Running is helpful at maintaining your current weight – meaning it will be harder to gain weight as an active runner.

4. Out-Of-Control Schedule

Running needs to be a priority is you want it to be a part of your life. Having a busy schedule is an excuse.

Take control of your calendar. Be more intentional with your time. Create a daily routine that includes the parts of your life you don’t want to regret missing later.

5. Peer Pressure

If your friends quit, you will too. Lazy friends have an amazing ability to make others around them lazy.

If you find yourself skipping workouts to head to the bars, take a few minutes to re-evaluate the last point: your calendar should be under YOUR control.

6. It’s Not for Them

I love talking to people about running marathons and they tell me that running is not for them. Why not?

What running god told you that you can’t run? If you start running, you’re a runner. Get out there and do it.

7. Serious Injury

I will concede that injuries happen. Sometimes, serious injuries can derail a great runner for life. It’s sad, but it’s not the end of the road.

If running is no longer possible, find another sport in which you can thrive.

If you’re only temporarily inured and running is still possible in the near future – don’t give up.

I began a serious weight lifting program when I was injured last year. It saved my running career and my attitude.

I will be okay if running disappears from my life, but you can be sure my replacement will ultimately become just as meaningful.