So you have decided to take up running… now what?
First off, Congratulations!
I hope you are here because you have a desire to find your own self confidence. That you want to challenge yourself, to find something for you, to find an endorphin-booster and join the awesome community of runners.
So, now what? Allow me to break it down into some “simple” get started steps.
1. Get the fancy running shoes
Running shoes are pricey, but they are made to support the foot/ankle, provide cushioning, absorb impact and so much more. Plus, trust me, you will feel super cool as soon as you put them on. It’s important to have a running shoe that is the right for your fit for you. I highly advise going to a running shoe store and having them fit you appropriately. There are so many options out there and it can be overwhelming. But, if you’re like me, sweet new running shoes are a nice piece of motivation.
2. Go slow and steady
If you are new to running, or returning to running after a longer period of time, think slow and steady. Both with pace and mileage/week. Your body needs a chance to adapt to the aerobic qualities of running and almost more importantly the physiological requirements of running. It takes muscles, tendons and ligaments time to adapt to this (new) skill. Doing too much too fast is a key way to get yourself injured. Starting with run/walk intervals is a fabulous way to start. This will allow your body to adapt to the needs of running in a more manageable and sustainable fashion. And it will give your aerobic system the level of fitness that it needs to move you forward.
3. Find community
Community can look like many things in running. The running path is not an easy one, and definitely not a straight one. Having a community who understands what you’re going through, has been there or is currently there with you, supports you and adds accountability can be a game changer. That can look like a weekly running group, a running buddy, a friend who has been a long time runner, a partner who is supporting you every step of the way, a social media group that allows you to ask questions and cheer you on, and dare I say a coach. Running may be solo in its physicality, but it is absolutely a better sport when you have a community around you.
4. Go easy on yourself
It’s easy, especially this time of year, to set high goals. To tell yourself that you are all in and that this is what you NEED to do to be healthy or fit or like everyone else or whatever. The reality is that once you get started, you will realize that not every run is easy, that commitment is hard, that scheduling running into your life can be complicated. This is how it is for everyone. You are not alone in this. So celebrate every win, no matter how small. Made it out the door today? Woohoo. Got up when your alarm clock went off? Woohoo. Completed all of your runs this week? Woohoo. Went to the store and got fitted for the correct running shoes? Woohoo. You can do this. But you also have to talk kindly to yourself along the way.
5. Expect it to be messy.
Many times new runners are looking at instagram or other social media, they are listening to their coworkers stories or watching a friend and are only seeing the positive newsfeed. I believe this sets us up for failure. If all runners are honest, they will tell you that running is a messy sport. It is hard, non-linear, detailed and grueling. It is not a quick sport. It takes lots of time, practice, adaptation and patience. But oh is it worth it!
I'm so excited to have you in the running community!
Want more tips? Check out this blog.
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