Best Beginner Runner Tips from other RunnersSince it’s been almost a decade since I was starting out, I turned to a group of friends and beginner runners for their best tips.
Here are their suggestions:
1. Start slowly Don’t push too hard. Take things slowly so you keep enjoying it. As a beginner runner, take it 10 seconds at a time.
Walk when you need to but push yourself out of your comfort zone. Ask yourself, am I walking
because I can or because I need to? Expect that your first run may only be 50 or 100 or 200 metres.
Relish running every distance. You made it happen and you can do it again if you go slowly.
2. Find a running buddy It’s so good to run with a friend and join the parkrun community. Haven’t heard about parkrun? It’s a free, timed 5km
run or walk that happens every Saturday in cities around the world! Consider your phone’s playlist another running
buddy. A great song can really go a long way to motivate you during your run!
3. All runners are alikeIt’s hard to be a beginner runner and it’s hard to be an experienced runner. We all face the same struggles no matter
how many years we have run for or how far or fast we’ve run. Have lots of fun and don’t compare yourself to other runners.
4. You can do this!Believe in yourself. Don’t give up. One foot in front of the other. You’re aiming for progress, not perfection. Go at your
own pace. Add a little bit more to each run and always finish with a burst.
5. Listen to your bodyRest or walk when you need it (there isn’t any shame in that!) and seek professional help when needed. Having a day off
is ok. One day isn’t going to make a difference to your fitness but it can help your recovery.
6. Enjoy it!Enjoy your body’s strength and power. Strength and power aren’t created easily. Sure there will be some discomfort but
that’s your muscles growing.
7. StretchStretch before and after every run even if you don’t feel tight. It will do wonders for your recovery. The foam roller was
mentioned above and it’s a great way to stretch out your muscles after a run. It’s not the most enjoyable experience but
it will help you to get out the door the next day.
8. Be consistentDon’t worry about your speed or distance initially. Just keep getting out there! To help build your habit, make a schedule
of when you’re free to run (ie around your kid’s school after drop off or run to the post office instead of driving). If you
have a timetable you’re much more likely to go for a run.
credit :
https://www.366daysofrunning.com
