It’s time to stop rationalizing, and instead try the approach that’s overwhelmingly recommended.
Have you considered not running as your primary exercise program? If you aren’t specifically going for the performance of running, I would shelve it and instead cut calories (assuming you have extra weight to lose) and lift heavy things at the gym. Distance running is great for distance running.
I have been in multiple running groups and they are great for achieving goals like 26.2 miles, but after that, I wanted to optimize for looks and not for long distances (any more).
Unfortunately, I live in a rural area where gyms are hard to come by. I have enjoyed running for its own sake in the past, that’s a part of why I want to get back into running shape, but I will try to add in some body weight exercises as well as my running.
Have you considered not running as your primary exercise program? If you aren’t specifically going for the performance of running, I would shelve it and instead cut calories (assuming you have extra weight to lose) and lift heavy things at the gym. Distance running is great for distance running.
I have been in multiple running groups and they are great for achieving goals like 26.2 miles, but after that, I wanted to optimize for looks and not for long distances (any more).
Unfortunately, I live in a rural area where gyms are hard to come by. I have enjoyed running for its own sake in the past, that’s a part of why I want to get back into running shape, but I will try to add in some body weight exercises as well as my running.
You don’t need a gym to exercise. Google up “paleo fitness”, Crossfit is full of advice about how to build a basic gym in your garage, etc. etc.
That’s great, it would be such a problem to not like running and not live near a gym. Good luck.