Feeling self conscious :(

I used to be very over weight and decided to join slimming world a year and a half ago and have managed to lose over 3 stone since then. Despite feeling more confident in my new body, I cant help but feel self conscious when I go out for my runs, I think that everyone is staring and judging me. Anyone else feel not so great when they go out for their runs?

[Buddy34 Graduate]

That is something I thought about when I started running . Then I remembered seeing people out running before I started and all I used to think was ' I wish I could do that ' . So be proud of your achievement and don't worry about anything else or anyone 😊😊

[Oldgirlruns Graduate]

Hi Kaf, I think you’ll find most of us felt like that to start with because we were doing something so strange to us! But I don’t think you need worry, they’re not looking at you- and if they do, it’s probably just to say hallo! Well done on the weight loss, that’s a fantastic achievement as well!! Keep running and posting on the forum, you know you have support here!

[SlowLoris]

I agree with Buddy34, when you look at other people are you judging them?

[damienair Graduate]

When people look at others running it’s generally out of jealousy.

Below are the reasons why:

1. I’d love to be able to get out running like that girl and get fit. But I’d never be able to do it. I’m too unfit and she is so brave.

2. I wish I was out running today like that girl, but today’s my rest day.

3. That’s it, when I get home I’m going out for a run as I was inspired by that girl.

4. I’m sick of being injured, I wish I could be back out running like that girl.

Just run. It’s amazing and it will change your life.

Damien

[ktsok Graduate]

I think most of us do! It’s a strange, exposing feeling, being out there sweating and huffing and puffing and maybe wobbling! I like my reflective sunglasses, makes me feel incognito!

[Elfe5 Graduate]

I felt self conscious at first & ran on quiet paths beside hedges! 😂 After a while running becomes your “ new normal” and you won’t think about it. It also helped me to be engrossed in a good podcast or music so my mind was not on the people I was passing.

You have done brilliantly both with SW & running- what determination! I’m sure you will soon leave behind those self conscious feelings. 😃

[DiscoRunner Graduate]

If anyone has ever taken notice of me it is to be encouraging, never negative. You are doing an amazing thing for your health and wellbeing, don’t let a fear of a thing stop you. Sometimes we worry about things pointlessly, when you get a negative thought, face it, and say something to yourself (so what, who cares, they’re not judging me) so you address it and then move on & say to yourself ‘I’m a runner’. Because you are! Then try and focus on something else, your foot placement, or count some steps, or make sure your arms are relaxed, or look at the trees coming into leaf. I run using the Japanese slow jogging technique (there’s a film on youtube), it’s very slow and has allowed me to run for longer durations than I’d ever dreamed possible, and I get lost in great podcasts. Dr Rangan Chatterjee’s Feel Better Live More have great interviews about - we’ll just living better - I’m learning interesting things and so absorbed in the talks I’m only really focusing on that.

You’ve already achieved an amazing amount and the running is another incredible journey. If you need encouragement, just post here, lots of us will be around to give the support you need x

[Rachaelruns]

Yes!! I’ve just started running again after having my baby... i am so self conscious.. I know nobody is looking at me but I try to go to the park at times I know it will be quieter... would never run along a busy road etc. how do you feel at the end of the run? As the weeks go on I’m sure you will start to feel more confident!! Xx

[Bookbizlady Graduate]

Why would they be judging you and if they are then is it your problem? You have taken control of your life and are getting healthier and fitter, who gives a monkey's what a stranger you whizz past thinks! I bet you started this journey for you and not a random passer by! Run tall, you are not the person you were, you are a whole new you! Give them a smile and don't be surprised if they smile right back at ya!

[RunRunRun13 Graduate]

Don’t worry about what “you” think people are thinking about when they look at you. No one is judging and more than likely impressed that you have got off your butt and getting healthier and fitter ! Put your headphones on with some banging tunes and zone out. You’ve done amazing so far and should be so proud. We are all different shapes and sizes and we should all be proud of what we are ! You go girl ! Get out there with your head held high 🏃‍♀️💪👊