#160 How to Keep Running When You Want to Stop

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Can’t Run More Than 2km? Start Here

“How do people keep running without stopping?”

If you’ve ever found yourself asking that question after gasping for breath just a kilometre or two into a run, you’re definitely not alone.

In this episode of Flying RuNR, we tackle one of the biggest challenges facing new runners: how to keep going when your body—and your mind—are telling you to stop.

The good news? Every experienced runner has been there. The even better news? Running further isn’t about being naturally talented or super fit—it’s about finding the right approach, building consistency, and trusting the process.

Whether you’re trying to run your first 5km, return after time away, or simply break through that frustrating 2km barrier, this episode is packed with practical tips and honest advice from runners who’ve been exactly where you are.

Because every marathoner was once someone struggling to finish their first lap of the block.🏃 In This Episode

🚫 The Biggest Mistakes New Runners Make

  • Starting too fast and burning out early

  • Comparing yourself to more experienced runners

  • Thinking every run needs to be hard

  • Expecting instant results

    • Focusing on distance instead of consistency

    🐢 Running Too FastOne of the most common reasons runners struggle to go beyond a kilometre or two is simple: they’re running too quickly.

  • We discuss:

    • How to find your easy pace

    • Why slowing down can actually help you run further

    • The “conversation test”

    • Why most beginners underestimate how easy easy running should feel

    The Run-Walk Strategy

    Walking isn’t failing—it’s a strategy.

    We explore:

    • Why run-walk works for beginners and experienced runners alike

    • Different run-walk intervals to try

    • How planned walk breaks can help you go further

    • Why some marathon runners still use run-walk techniques

    The Mental Challenge

    Running isn’t just a physical challenge—it’s a mental one.

    We talk about:

    • Managing negative self-talk

    • Breaking big goals into smaller milestones

    • Focusing on the next corner, not the next kilometre

    • Celebrating small wins along the way

    Consistency Beats Intensity

    You don’t need one heroic run—you need lots of ordinary ones.

    Topics include:

    • Why consistency is the secret ingredient to improvement

    • Building a routine that works for your lifestyle

    • The power of small improvements over time

    • Trusting the process, even when progress feels slow

    Tips and Tricks

    Our favourite practical tips for beginners:

    • Slow down more than you think

    • Start with shorter, more frequent runs

    • Find a running buddy or group

    • Don’t skip rest days

    • Celebrate progress, not perfection

    • Focus on effort rather than pace

    • Remember why you started

    The Flying RuNR Discussion

    What was the biggest breakthrough that helped you run further?

    Was it slowing down? Discovering run-walk? Building consistency? Or simply believing that you could do it?

    We share our own stories, struggles, and the lessons we learned on the journey from beginner runner to marathon finisher.

    Listen Now

    Available on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

    You don’t have to run fast.

    You don’t have to run far.

    You just have to keep showing up.

    And before you know it, you’ll be inspiring someone else who’s standing exactly where you once stood.

    👟 Flying RuNR Reminder: Finish Lines. Not Finish Times

    Love our music, check Out Your Pace & Glory

    https://my.linkpod.site/YourPaceandGlory 

    Read how CurraNz Blackcurrant extract improves performance. https://flyingrunr.com/2024/07/21/enhance-your-performance-with-curranz/ 

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    This video contains no sponsored content or affiliate links.

    For business inquiries, please contact us at: happyrunning@flyingrunr.com 

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