Not built for running...

[shootingstar]

Catrin, do you want to run because your heart wants to, or is it another "should" thing to (that many others are doing) run for weight-bearing or cross-training, etc.?

We live at the foot of several marked bike routes plus walking paths where daily we see many joggers (and cyclists) in our area. There has been the odd time where I wondered if I could get into jogging as I cycle by them.

But knowing myself, it wouldn't be for great long distances. Jogging would become a chore. Whereas cycling I can go for many hours and still love it way more even if there are hills, rain, wind and crap. I don't consider cycling a chore, it's just sometimes the crappy weather, etc. gets in the way of my love.

Yes, most of us are born to run, each person at different pacing, bearable distances. But each of us are also born with natural loves for certain execises.

I remind myself, what exercise can I continue to love and do regularily for DECADES until I can no longer do it: cycling. Been at it regularily since I returned to it almost 18 yrs. ago. I returned to cycling at 32 yrs.

I am not convinced jogging much for myself is pyschologically the best thing to get me exercising regularily for decades. Cycling is easier for me psychologically --no matter how crappy I feel.

I have a brother-in-law (early 50's) who has problems with his knees (even after surgery). He ran a marathon a decade ago, was a regular jogger for several years: that's how he met my sister/now his wife..by jogging at fitness centre. 20 yrs. later she still jogs. They both cycle for relief, particularily for him because of his knee problems.

I add on simple yoga and pilates for balance, stretching, etc. When I get back into it (after bouts of laziness) I also enjoy doing this stuff too.

NB. I did try jogging regularily on my own as a late teen for a summer and didn't enjoy it much vs. the bike.