If you have a running hobby, you likely understand all of the joys it can bring to your life. Whether you run fast, slow, short distance or long distances – the rewards are all the same.
Some people mistakenly assume that runners are all very serious athletes. A common misconception is that those who treat running as a hobby never reap the same benefits as those who are “good” at the sport.
Is running a hobby?
Absolutely. Running is a hobby, and in fact, it’s one of the most versatile, beneficial hobbies you could have. Running is not only exercise, but it provides a way to relieve stress and improve your mood.
One of the worst assumptions a non-runner can make is that running is not fun. When you first get started, running usually feels a bit challenging. But those who stick with it long enough can attest to the fact that it does get easier – and becomes enjoyable very quickly.
Developing a running hobby is a great way to improve the quality of your life, increase well-being, reduce stress and gain fitness.
How do I start running as a hobby?
Whether you’ve tried a million times already or are completely new, treating running as a hobby probably feels impossible when you’re just getting started. Those first few runs will likely feel uncomfortable and foreign. However, once your body adjusts, you’ll find that you enjoy filling time with your running hobby.
The best way to start running as a hobby is to simply run. Get outside or hit the treadmill, run at a slow, comfortable pace, and take a break when you need to.
Let go of expectations at the beginning. Listen to your body and stay consistent by running a few times a week or even every other day. Staying active with frequent, short runs will help you overcome the initial discomfort faster than running a few longer runs spaced further apart.
>> 6 Steps to Start Running
The easiest way to create a running hobby is to stay consistent in the beginning. After a few weeks, your body will adjust and you’ll begin to see and improvement in your mood and fitness. Before long, you’ll probably be hooked.
Treating running as a hobby will help you continue for life. You’ll enhance your existing relationships, health and well-being. In case you’re not already convinced, here are 8 more reasons to start a running hobby today.
8 Reasons to Start a Running Hobby
Running is one of the most versatile, convenient and beneficial hobbies you could take up. If you’re considering starting running as a hobby, here are 8 reasons you won’t regret it.
You can do it anywhere.
You’ll never have to worry about needing to drive somewhere special to take part in a running hobby. Whether you’re at home in your neighborhood, traveling or visiting a friend, you can head out the door just about anywhere for a run.
It requires minimal gear or equipment.
When you use running as a hobby, it requires very minimal equipment or gear to get started. Find a good pair of running shoes and you’ll be able to get started without investing much more. Running requires very little financial resources compared to many other hobbies.
There is a ton of social support.
While it’s certainly nice to have hobbies that are yours alone, running can also be incredibly social. With so many runners, it’s easier than ever to find like-minded people on social media, in running groups or just within your neighborhood. You’ll find all the motivation and social connection you want within the running community.
It’s a great excuse to travel.
It’s easy to stay consistent with a running hobby when you can head right out your front door. However, a great way to stay motivated during training is to sign up for a race as an end goal. There are tons of race options – whether you’re training for your first 5k or a marathon. Training for a destination race is a great excuse to get away for a weekend, explore new places and bring your family along for race day.
Runners come in all sizes, shapes and fitness levels.
With so many runners, you’re bound to find a person or community that makes you feel like you belong. There’s no pressure to transform yourself into a new person or live up to a certain standard. Runners are slow, fast, short, tall, skinny, fat and everything in between. They come from a diverse range of ethnic, social and economic backgrounds. You can truly be you as a runner.
You only compete against yourself.
Most of us are looking for a hobby that we can use on our own to improve the quality of our life. Often it’s a way of seeking solitude, rather than attention. Running provides the perfect opportunity to become the best version of yourself without added outside pressure. You’ll compete against yourself each day, with no pressure to share with others unless you choose to do so.
It’s easy to get the family involved.
While some seek solitude, others hope to find a hobby that provides them meaningful connection. Luckily, running is a hobby that the entire family can enjoy together. It’s easy to get the kids involved, whether that means bringing the stroller or or having them run along side you. Creating a running hobby within your family helps encourage a healthy lifestyle and sets the precedent that exercise is fun.
Endorphins will help you stay motivated.
Last but certainly not least, if you choose to try running as a hobby, you’ll love the endorphins after each run. These feel-good chemicals are the reason you feel so energized and proud after completing a run. Regardless of whether your struggled or finished with ease, the endorphins will always be there at the finish.
Running is perhaps one of the most accessible, versatile and inclusive hobbies. It doesn’t discriminate, can be very inexpensive, and is easily tailored to your own individual goals and desires.
If you’re considering running as a hobby, don’t wait another day to get started. Stay consistent in the beginning as your body adjusts, and before long you’ll find yourself looking forward to your next run.