5k Myths – BUSTED!

People often ask me about my fitness journey as they see the results of my training in the weight I’ve lost. The conversation eventually turns to my new found love of running and I invite them to run with me.

That invitation is usually met with a chuckle and a smirk, which leads me to ask:

Why are so many adults either afraid of or opposed to running?

My answer a year ago would have been that I’m not a runner, I’m not in shape, I’m too fat, and that running is too hard.

Back then walking on the trail path near our house (a one mile round trip) left me out of breath and in need of a long nap. Running was the last thing on my mind.

Just a few short days ago, however, I crossed the finish line and logged an official time for an official 5k race! (race results page, scroll down as I finished 242nd place) It turns out that my excuses were actually myths.

There are indeed people who have legitimate reasons not to run such as injury and other health conditions. Still, I believe a vast majority of adults could benefit from completing a 5k race – if only they get past these myths:

5k Myths: I’m Not a Runner
Maybe not today, but in a few short weeks you could be. On March 4, 2011 I weighed 304lbs. On that day, I walked from my house to a local grocery and back (the distance of 3.1 miles or 5 kilometers). I did this in about 58 minutes.

Twenty-four weeks later, on August 13, I completed the River Valley Run 5k in 32 minutes, 53 seconds. I ran most of the way and took a few short walk breaks.

5k Myths: I’m Not in Shape
Ok. Then get in shape. There is no better time in human history than the present to be fat and want to loose it. Technology and techniques abound! There are many options out there to help you train.

The method I used to train for the 5k was an iPhone app – Jeff Galloway’s Couch to 5k. It is an 8 week program and you only have to commit to 3 days a week to train. Can it get any easier?

5k Myths: I’m Too Fat
I crossed the finish line for my first 5k last Saturday at 260lbs. For my height and weight, the CDC considers this to be obese. There were people of all shapes, sizes, ages, and abilities who started and completed the 5k with me last week. You can do it too!

5k Myth: Running Is Too Hard
This is my favorite myth. I fight it each time I hit the road. There’s a point at about five minutes into your run where your heart is pumping, the sweat is rolling, and then you realize how hard you’re breathing. You feel like you’re going to pass out from lack of air.

That’s just your body revolting against movement. You’ve allowed it to sit motionless for years and now you’re expecting those muscles to suddenly come alive and do their job. This is normal. All beginning runners experience this. Just push through.

Maybe running really is hard. But then if it were easy, you wouldn’t get that natural high from accomplishing something that you once thought impossible.

QUESTION: What myths are you hearing from within that are keeping you from signing up for a 5k? Please discuss by leaving a comment below the post by clicking here.

WARNING/DISCLAIMER: This information is not certified by a medical professional or fitness trainer. It is my experience alone. Do yourself a favor, get an annual physical with blood work with your doctor. Get their permission to train. Also, get a personal trainer at a gym if only for two or three sessions. These steps help you train safely.