I Tried Running for Two Years and It Changed Me

[@ZachHighley]

Get Nebula using my link for 40% off an annual subscription: go.nebula.tv/zachhighley Watch my next video on the science of exercise early: nebula.tv/videos/zachhighley-the-danger-of-not-exercising

[@Monkehrawrrr]

Can you do a video on the science of sensationalism? Thanks!

[@TheInternetFan]

have you ever tried IEM earphones while running?

[@albertogarcien6752]

For people wanting to start running from 0: WALK-RUN-WALK-RUN. Even if you just run from one lamp post to another and then walk for 10 minutes. It doesnt matter. Just walk-run and slightly run more and walk less

[@wond3rlove]

One thing to note for this is to not overrun when starting out. My first run ever was 3 miles and it took me about 40 minuets. Is stopped probably 15 times and I kept doing this and developed many shin and calf problems that I still deal with 1.5 years later. Make sure you take all your runs very slow and do not over run.

[@LuizMaltaMontenegro]

​@@wond3rlovesame here! 😂

[@danielschurmann7558]

Yeah. Everybody says to keep it slow at the beginning, but seems everybody has to do the same mistake. For me running became fun the moment I learned to slow down. When I go outside to run, I know that when I come back, I'd be able to go for a second round. That slow and it feels great!

[@NerajDhiman]

😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@christianaunderwood]

I still take a walk break if I need to if Im increasing my pace. And take walks in between my run days. Really good for your aerobic fitness. :D

[@simongamez]

I want to give you a hug! Haha. Just a year ago I started running, after so many years, I finally did it. I was so insecure and self-conscious about it, but that change. I watched your video a year ago, and that not only made me suscribed, but it inspired me and motived me at the beginning of my running journey. I've grown so much since then, mentally and physically. It sucked at the beginning, I got injured many times, my body was always in pain due to my terrible physical condition and my anxiety was through the roof. All that started changing with time, I got better, I started to run longer, faster, easier and little did I know, I ran my first 5k, under the rain. I got better with the 5k's and then I ran longer. I finally ran my first runner's high and that was one of the best days of my life, I remember your videos in that moment. Last December, I ran my first 10k race and on the 31st I ran my second 10k, to finish the year with a great run. I went from being a very skinny, out of shape, insecure and anxious guy, to be a slightly bigger, in better shape, more confident and calm guy, all thanks to running. I was never good at sports, I hated sports but I've come to love running. It changed my life, literally, and helped me to be a better person in many ways. Unfortunately, I got injured this January and I haven't been able to run but hoping I can get back to it soon. So thank you, for your videos, specially that one. You inspired me since the beginning of my running journey and somehow you're part of it. Keep on going!

[@ZachHighley]

Amazing story, keep going!

[@boomboom9479]

How is the injury coming along, are you back running?

[@casesully50]

I've been running for 2 years now my self. My father ran the Boston marathon in 2:42:00, he ran every day for 28 years until he had a hip replacement. His health is deteriorating so in his honor I started to run just like him. Now running is a huge part of my life, and it always will be. Just have to get to Boston to honor my father.

[@bolotroy8066]

you can do it

[@mitochondria6264]

Good luck from India

[@postmalonalisa420]

You got this ez

[@jannorris4140]

Dont you think it'd be smarter ... easier on your joints .... to simply just jog on a treadmill??? Hello? Is that not as Macho or something??

[@casesully50]

@@jannorris4140 I've tried. It's just so boring. I like being in the elements and outside on trails. If you perfect the right running form you can minimize impact. My father ran with a big heel strike his whole life. He didn't know better. But I have KZbin and I've fixed my form.

[@kylewollman2239]

This is how I feel about running too. I don't do it just for physical fitness, but because it lifts my mental state more than any other activity I've tried. I have more energy throughout the day and just feel a positive glow in my mood. I liken running to the best drug you can get addicted to.

[@malini2027]

Hey Zach, I don't normally comment on videos but I had to this time. I recently have gotten into strength training, but have always despised running. I watched this video last night and decided it was time to conquer my fear. My goal was to run a single mile without stopping. I ended up running a 5k. Your video was the reason I got on the treadmill today for the first time in 4 years. Thank you!!

[@paulkennedy8163]

Try running a mile outside. it’s much more rewarding than a treadmill.

[@Smoky_Crow]

​@@paulkennedy8163I agree. I started running on the treadmill until track season. Me and my friends ran around the park and it was one of the best moments of my life. I now run outside of I do any form of running. I personally like trail running.

[@Dennyballoons]

Are you still running? Great job starting!

[@galex5060]

Thank you so much Zach! You've nailed the whole wonderful world of running. Started running at 18. Now I am 62... so, am I still running? Nope! I had to stop a few years ago because as you get older, you have to protect your body, especially your hips and knees. My chiro recommended I change it up and stop my running. At first, I resisted. I was devastated that I had to stop. And then, I thought, I will find a new way to get the same highs and benefits. So, I now do the elliptical and spinning. I applied my running techniques to it and it worked it all out. I go flat out on the elliptical for anywhere up to 75 minutes. I spin for up to 45 minutes. I do the elliptical 5-6 days per week; I follow up with spinning for 30-45 minutes 2-3 times a week. I walk on the treadmill for a few kms a few times a week. And, it all still works out. I'm as fit as I was 30 years ago. I also do weight machines 3-4 days per week. And most importantly, I stretch for 20 minutes after. Why am I telling you all this? Running is brilliant but you have to pace yourself and keep an eye on your body. But no matter what cardio you do, you can still be a "runner" just in a different form. I know a lot of people who had to stop running and did nothing and they fell into a heap. Just change it up! Once a runner, always a runner. It's not just about the activity, it's a mental state of mind! It's a way of life! There is always something you can do! And do I miss "running" anymore! Not at all! Because in my head, I am still running!

[@LostLocketGaming]

Humans were born to run. Born to exercise. Cardiovascular exercise is one the of the best prescriptions, period.

[@papasquat355]

I just started week 3 of a couch to 5k program and completely identify with everything you are talking about. Thanks for posting this for all of us struggling, but not stopping.

[@jose7558]

I´m in the same week of the same program haha, keep going!

[@scubasteve2189]

Best advice is run slower. Even if you feel like you’re barely moving. So many people just run too fast, especially when they are new. The pace doesn’t matter in the beginning. It’s all about building the endurance and building the habit. 👍🏻

[@heymoe1179]

"Embrace the suck." A term I learned in the Army.

[@wesleybarrett9502]

Another good one along side "Embrace the Suck" when you run as a group, or on any group project. No matter the background of the others. "One Team, One Fight." Also, as much as I find it annoying sometimes, I didn't realize the Army teaches how to do Zone 2/Low Zone 3 run by doing slower paced Cadence Runs. It teaches everyone how to work and motivate together and how to improve cardiovascular health. And Cadences sometimes mentally empower everyone. Music in your ears does more though

[@mijaresaldo]

I ran from 18 to 27 years old straight almost daily. Life had changed and at 28 stopped doing it as frequently. Now I'm 31. Will take running back. Thanks for the video! :D

[@billylee5335]

Been working out since high school.Started running for the first time this year as a New Year’s reso.There’s nothing like it such a love hate relationship..Love this vid!!

[@bafalosoldja5754]

I had a 2-month streak of running each morning, every other day, towards the tail end of 2022 but whether it was the weather or just a random bout of fatigue I just suddenly quit. There's always that nagging feeling after, where you feel like you're racking up a debt to yourself, and it just kept wearing me down while I was already very tired day to day. But the funny paradox about exercise is that, in the long run, it makes you much less tired on a daily basis. Sure, there's the 20 minutes of sometimes mental and physical discomfort, but it's nothing compared to all the hours in the day it makes up for. I think this video is the push and reminder I needed. I'll run again tomorrow morning, 7:30 just like before. Thanks Zach.

[@ZachHighley]

Let’s goooo

[@eanfreeman1427]

How has it been?

[@blaze5970]

Can definitely relate to u. I usually do a lot of ~5km runs and when i actually start running, the initial 1-2 km r kinda boring and i just want to stop. But then about half way thro, i start to get a bit tired and out of breath and then m like 'yeah this is starting to get fun now'. I become more motivated and start to enjoy the pain. Almost as if i start to enter the 'flow state' or 'zone' which is another popular theory but that's for another day haha.

[@masonamccall]

I JUST got my Brooks Ghost Max's yesterday. I watched your 30 day challenge video last week (when I completed my 3rd run or so) and it definitely gave me a lot to look forward to. I'm setting new PRs everyday and I can't wait to see what running is going to do for me. Thanks for sharing your story. I recently moved up to NH and told myself that I'd turn my life around. Got here last Saturday, started running on Monday, and then Wedensday, and then Friday, now it's 3 times a week and it's just lifechanging.

[@Pouhl]

🎉 I’m on about week 6 of beginning to run. Also just watched his 30 day’s running video last week. Let’s go run! 😊

[@BasmatiCake]

I am currently training for my first half marathon. The race is in 2 weeks and I am so nervous/excited! I have also been using the NRC app for my prep. Loved the video. Embrace the suck!

[@normazayed2100]

Nike run club is my absolute favorite...I've been using it for 7 years I used it for my first half ( and many others since )

[@filipboshkovski7963]

how did you do sir?

[@imeldaduque7600]

One of the most inspiring videos I've seen about running. You really know how to share your good energy ✨️

[@acampos8422]

Thanks for sharing! I used to be an avid runner M-F then Covid messed up things for me. I am still running but not consistently, I haven’t given up on running. Yesterday I walked 5km, today I am definitely going for another walk and who knows maybe I’ll do some running. Thanks for the motivation!

[@chris09290326]

You’ve inspired me to start running! Thanks man. I’ve had a few knee dislocations so always kind of hesitant to do any major physical activity but going to give running a shot.

[@dobb2106]

How has it been>

[@DIPANKARROY-jw7pc]

the talk was so genuine that it felt like watching a movie and surf through a situation in the intro to a happy ending climax.

[@robodad_]

I'm a month and a half into running. You are far more motivational than any other guy with abs I've seen on youtube. I watched a video prior to this one trying to get some tips to better my runs. I'm only running 1 mile to 2 miles at this moment as I need to improve my overall health first. But the video prior had some guy saying running one mile wont make difference to weight blah blah blah and completely shot my new found confidence to peaces. You restored it. Showing how you bettered your running and how it betters your mood and how you think about it is inspiring beyond words. I'm currently fighting for my life against NAFLD if I don't fix it my health I'm done. So thank you for everything your a true gentleman 🤝

[@Skoopyghost]

I am a jump rope, and kettlebell guy. I only tolirate running if I am playing football, or futsal. I wish you the best with fighting your health problems. I had to regain my health. Take it slow. One day at a time. You got this.

[@robodad_]

@@Skoopyghost thanks man. Still on the grind my clothes are all starting to become to baggy to weat which is a positive sign. though it's reaping my bank account 😂

[@daman7601]

Oy mate ya still runnin?

[@robodad_]

@@daman7601 I am indeed my guy. my mile time has improved drastically and the burning in the chest has subsided thanks to learning how to breath 🤣 I made the mistake of pushing myself too hard at the start and was heading towards injury but from that I found a healthy balance. Thanks for checking up with how I'm doing I really appreciate it

[@anjneyrai]

Your way of speaking is literally amazing. It feels so calm and pleasant. Your smile always adds to the quality of your videos. Great work. Keep going 🤝

[@PForPaediatrics]

Your videos are always so informative and helpful for us ! Keep running Zach

[@ZachHighley]

More to come!

[@uhyanyan]

This was me in med school as well. Discovered running and probably got my cardiovascular health into the best its ever been. Trying to get back into it now that residency made me drop off, but having to find new running trails near me is tough

[@potospotos4078]

Loving the bark of those trees are 😍. So nice that you have such nice place to run.

[@gabyleon9241]

I got into running in 2020 and ran 3 miles everyday. I fell off and gained 30 pounds in 2022 when I moved to a new city and got a 9-5 desk job. I just started my running journey again 6 weeks ago and am making it a goal to run a marathon before I turn 30!

[@andreapuskaric4858]

Dude. I started speed walking two weeks ago bc I can't really run yet due to a lot of health(spine) issues, aches and stuff. Your video tho. The high you mention I experienced like the fifth day and every day since but that's bc I do a lot of meditation, visualisation and stuff that definitely contribute to getting much more out of any activity. You bring so much value. As someone already said here, you are a great storyteller and I'm adding why - bc of the passion and the drive we hear in every word you try to and succeed in conveying the best way possible. About embracing the suck - I'm actually currently reading a book called Mastery by George Leonard(the master of aikido) and your entire video sounded a lot like it. Also your eyes are something else.

[@everbr7419]

Just stopping by to say ur 30 days of running video , inspired me to start running using the Nike app. I started walking 15 minutes a day. 3 weeks in I ran my first 10k in my life. Thanks for inspiration 💪

[@Humiliated1234]

What? You went with walking 15 min a day to running 10km after 3 weeks???

[@alphonsoelm5652]

Coach Bennett started me off too! I used that app for the better part of 2 years for my run streak. Now I'm staring down 4 years of Dail running

[@garnyyoo98]

Thank you so much for posting these videos man! Truly inspirational how hard you work and how dedicated you are to self-improvement. You are a role model.

[@ZachHighley]

You are my role model

[@kristinasecret1767]

you should also try jumping ropes! Awesome vids! better than films from hollywood

[@EduardoHenrique-nd1ro]

You're an inspiration, Zach! Thanks for sharing with us! Cheers from Brazil!

[@bythandeka]

HHmmm this is beautiful, everything, your story telling to the video production! All the best Zach!

[@rachharriss]

Your videos are absolutely beautiful they this is some of the best editing I’ve ever seen! Keep making these! Just found your channel tonight and I’m now subscribed😊

[@venesyaseyoum]

i love you zach you are my motivation when i wont to give up on things and i am senior in high school and i wont to go med school and i got more information about med school, study tip, and life from your videos and i wont to say thank you for the all videos they are life changing and you are such amazing ,creative and awesome person that i know in my inter life i wish happy and healthy life for you.

[@wills2652]

Thanks so much for your videos! I love your running videos! I am a casual runner and your videos are very good and makes me want to run more!

[@RishabJainK]

keep making more videos - you're an inspiration to all

[@kittenlittle2009]

This made me laugh so hard and inspired me . I started running at a track near me at 5 in the morning everyday for a month. I got up to 2-3 miles daily than they tore up the track in the beginning of summer and I stopped running . I wasn’t used to running on the road and it hurt my joints. I started riding my bike and hiking long hikes on the weekend but missed running . I actually have been a virtual runner for the past few weeks studying running and watching every running video I find which brought me to this video. I am ready to hit the streets again . Thank you Zach.

[@leebradford6283]

Haha legend! I don’t know if I’m more impressed by the actual running or the content itself! I am hearing ya. I went downhill with work and life in general too then picked running back up after maybe 4 years. I quit lifting weights and took up yoga and I am nearly 41! I feel better each day. Keep going Zach!

[@0ptimal]

Started running some 2 weeks ago. Not super inactive guy, i work on my feet and lift modestly, but far from being in good cardio shape. Hadnt ran hardly at all in yearsss. Have taken it very slow, but man in 2 weeks im noticing very reassuring effects. Last few days I'm finding myself saying "wow i literally feel like running ", just randomly during the day. Walking feels so much smoother, my legs feel energized, i just feel so much better, despite not doing a whole lot yet. Very happy and eager to continue.

[@balochsarparah5237]

You are an inspiration for me zach

[@ZachHighley]

Thanks for sticking with me *cough* it’s ZacH with an H

[@michaelstas9811]

Hey Zach I’m a Podiatrist. My story is similar and it started in Medical School as well. We didn’t have COVID, but I just found it a much better way to deal with stress than lifting weights alone. Very nice video. Thank you.

[@disbadn]

11:43 "I like the suck" - Zach Highley 2023 great video btw, running is great

[@JerryMeehanJr]

my dad died 2 years ago at 63 from covid his heart mutated double in size and had a massive heart attack. heart disease and diabetes runs in both sides of my family. I am not in shape at all but am not obese back in march i decided to start running, got the nike app, did a guided run and loved it. i stopped running because we moved and got sidetracked. recently i started getting winded during certain activities that never was a problem and it scared me. so i started running again and am in love and addicted. the nike guided runs really are so good. running sucks but when you realize you actually ran thats the best part of it.

[@rooyajabarkhil5260]

This is a great video, and I got emotional more than once when you described how good running made you feel. It is truly life-changing.

[@mmarwasaad]

When you talk about run , i see you motivated & have passion

[@davidlovesrunning]

I hated running when I first began , high school cross country got me into it , now that I’m 27 I’m love it … I dint even realize I was chasing runner high lol . Good job Zach !

[@enwe6487]

I literally have that Andrew Huberman quote about intense friction and dopamine release on a note on a pinboard right infront of me, and just glanced at it while you quoted that lol. Eerie!

[@DiamondOrPoor78]

Now you need to do a race!

[@cinnavonnie]

i just watched your running video from 2020 and was so impressed by the video that i clicked on your channel to check out your other videos - behold, this video! these videos give me the confidence as someone with asthma to just start running. i currently walk 20k+ steps a day as i have an under the desk treadmill and WFH, and i think my next step will be running. new subscriber here!!

[@mydearriley]

How you would navigate concept that it's just the sort of person to enjoy running is also someone who, in general, pushes themselves that extra bit? Rather then the other way around, where a person pushes themselves to become a resilient person? How do you account for the survivor bias and being someone who does push themselves and is a resilient person. Growing up I'd hear people tell me that I am a resilient and hardworking person. But internally I am conflicted. It feels as if It's the tasks and activities that I choose to do that make me appear to be a resilient person, rather than feeling like because I am a resilient person I choose to have certain goals or personal standards. How can someone determine if the chicken comes before the egg? Is the distinction worthy of worry if It's accepted that resilient people will simply find a way to push themselves?

[@freddyjosereginomontalvo4667]

Thanks for all the good videos man Take care

[@ZachHighley]

Thanks for watching them!

[@conradburdekin722]

Really enjoyed that Zach, thank you

[@jamesrosenberg1612]

I relate to this so much! I started 5 months ago and have been enjoying pushing hard. Tons of hybrid training and big trail runs.

[@alexisroboham2825]

This is just an amazing video! Thanks so much for sharing! :)

[@rickminer7528]

Usually, when I watch videos like this I'm like yeah, whatever. But this one makes me want to get out there and push it harder.

[@heebakhalid]

I’m new to your channel and I love it!!! 💗💗

[@ZachHighley]

Welcome!!

[@adam_wetton]

I just love the use of the word 'suck' in this video 😭

[@shellyt556]

Good job Zack and running on the grass is good for your feet. Running really helps ease my anxiety

[@thabo5799]

I've been working at a desk for past 6 years with not a lot of activity. Started running 7 weeks ago and oh god, I suffered for the first month. Yesterday I did my first 5k without stopping once, maintained a 6min mile. I haven't been that happy for a while, walked back home with a big smile. Going to try and do 5k a bit faster now with some interval training.

[@kbreezy1581]

I know a lot of ppl don't wanna hear this but if you are starting running, especially if you are couch to 5k, start small and walk where you can. Do not push yourself or start wanting to break records early on. Run 3 maybe 4 days a week at a comfortable pace so that you wont want to quit by the end of the week. it also helps to set a long term plan of 10 weeks for example, with a goal time or distance and then break up that goal into smaller, manageable steps to help you stay motivated

[@marmaladebrah]

Epic! Thanks for sharing Zach, hope you’re still going haha

[@dimitrisbellos01]

"Ι needed a team to carry me up there.. And there is no team". Now, you have my attention mate.

[@omarshararhussein7705]

Awesome videos Zach really insightful and great content too, keep it up!

[@ZachHighley]

Appreciate it!

[@VijayJadhav-og5pb]

love your story..........thank you

[@ZachHighley]

Thank you

[@Inspiringami]

Love this video! I’ve been working out at the gym and running on treadmill for at least 20mins a day. For about 2months meow. I had been running outside in the cold as well. Running outside is amazing but I’ve packed off the last couple of weeks. So thanks for the inspiration to get outside! Also, me at the gym today with my hardcore workout, “this is hard. Well I push through. I push myself hard. That’s who I fucking am!” 🔥 🔥

[@bolotroy8066]

my third day running am 33 wish me luck thanks for the video i want to improve my lifestyle and health nice stories keep running good luck to all who watch this video

[@animetheascension]

Great video as always however the beginning of the video deffo had me 😂

[@ZachHighley]

Haha got to hook you in…

[@siddhantraj5323]

I know the feel bruh!, no matter what, just DO THE THING!

[@cindycindy3033]

I like your eyes! Congrats for your running exercises

[@tdj3376]

You are a great story teller

[@Bicyclechris]

Challenge for you: Try only breathing through your nose on your easy runs. You won’t believe the difference in your oxygen utilization after doing it fir a while, and having the adaptations in your nose take effect.

[@mrbunnylovespancake1]

I want you to know your video saved my life. When you first uploaded I made sure to check in after a few months to see if I could replicate what you did. Thank you for sharing your story. I'm so grateful. Learning to love the suck has helped me more than anything else.

[@anitarora1854]

I love your videos 💓 Thank you so much for posting these sort of videos to encourage us and not let the spirit die..

[@ZachHighley]

Thanks for watching !

[@infinitum-repertorium]

Zach, you are probably the greatest reason I'll tackle life's challenges in a better mindset. Thank you so much! It's evening here in India and I'm gonna wake up early from tomorrow and start running and appreciating tough tasks in life.

[@victorrodriguez1234]

That good Zach, run is very good for the people.

[@Throughmyeyes-x9l]

Watching from Africa Botswana🇧🇼

[@silasollegario]

you know what? If all the videos I've watched about running, this was the one that inspired me the most.

[@omlitschristian]

run through the what?? xD great vid Zach, loved it

[@MasomSingh]

Hey everything in this video is amazing

[@zoeharwood2179]

Loved this! Also, big shoutout to Coach Bennett who has been my rock since I started my running journey

[@Karma7711]

I've found that running has really helped me with stress and anxiety way more than I thought it would

[@brendanbuehler4352]

This was a great video!

[@AM-pn5mh]

What about the diet? You used to wake up and run? Would you eat something before the run?

[@Tiger4ever89]

good video Zach for me the irony is, i can run more then average people.. even when i was 106 kg (233 lbs) i hicked a mountain that took 4 hours to climb, and 4 hours to go down.. 9 in total with break... but my biggest issue is Procrastination... i am struggling to be disciplined.. but is hard... i will attempt to run again.. 5 miles every day.. and see what happens, for 30 days thx for the inspiration btw

[@user-sg8kq7ii3y]

Jack Lalanne trained for 2-hrs per day, seven days per week, never missing a single day for decades and decades. But he said it himself that he HATES working out. But he did it because he LOVED the results!

[@LMBOatU]

Can I be the odd person who points out that that is a beautiful tree to the left side of you (you’re right)? The way the bark pattern suddenly starts, it reminds me of a tattoo sleeve.

[@stelofthegods4982]

You made me go for a run after the gym, 2km in 15 mins.

[@dhc4822]

It's amazing zach . it's a very satisfied feeling.I really like physical activities.and running is one of the best

[@stayhappylittlemermaid]

You have what it takes to become the best version of you.🎉

[@ZachHighley]

Vamoss

[@annaspeaks373]

I don’t know much about running but personally I prefer walking and creating challenges.

[@Batwomenom]

This is a huge achievement.

[@alexiapereira7692]

Parabéns! A disciplina é liberdade. Espero que continue correndo, pois é maravilhoso.

[@schmidi333]

Awesome video, makes me want to start running :)

[@janeausten6078]

Oof how I enjoyed this video You've inspired me 😌🤌

[@Aritul]

11:32 - 11:39 About sucking and change was very good. I need to replay this part in my head when I am working out.

[@narakrah1892]

i like the suck i want the suck

[@paiuptizermemer5701]

Is there a way to contact you to ask questions? For example i want to ask you how to study faster because it takes me ages to read large amounts of notes but dont really know if comments are the right place to ask. Btw love the content :)

[@shahzodanazarova2155]

I love your videos. Thank you so much for amazing videos keep going🥰👍

[@whatcamacallit1534]

This trasformed my life too

[@Mr.Plant1994]

What running app do you use now? Is it still the Nike app?