So you want to start running! Great! It’s ok to be a little uneasy about running, but I am hoping to put your mind at ease a bit with these top 5 tips for new runners from a below-average runner.
1. Start slooooowww
Although I am sure you are just bursting with excitement, don’t think you can go out and run 5 miles. A) you could hurt yourself B) you are setting yourself up to be disappointed. Evaluate where you are now. When was the last time you ran? What is the furthest distance you have run?
Use all of this information to dictate your game plan. I always recommend starting with one mile. Afterward, evaluate how that went. How winded do you feel? Was that difficult? If one mile was challenging, try sticking to running one mile until it feels comfortable, then up it to 1.5 or two miles. Once you get more comfortable with 1-3 mile runs, start looking up training plans. There are lots of really good ones on Pinterest or other running websites.
2. What is your why?
Finding your why is important for various reasons, but most importantly it will keep you going when you do not want to run. Do you want to be physically stronger? Mentally stronger? Are you training for a specific race? Would you like to lose a few lbs? Keeping your why in mind will get you through the hardest runs and keep you motivated.
3. Get yo self some solid shoes
Overall running is not expensive… with two exceptions: racing and shoes. I would say if you are running more than 3 miles, you should invest in running shoes. What happens is people run in their normal sneakers (which is fine to start!) and then start complaining about the knee, shin, and hip pain. They see this as a sign to quit running because they are getting injured. Don’t freak out, you probably just need real running shoes, and you should be feeling good within 3-4 runs.
4. Celebrate small victories
While mileage is important in training, it’s only a small part of the sport. It’s important to remember to celebrate the small victories such as doing 3 miles without walking, completing an under 12-minute mile, or positive self-talk the entire run. These small victories will keep you motivated and driven.
5. Remember progress is not linear
There will be bad runs. To me, this is the most frustrating part about running. I will feel so confident during my five-mile run, then the next day I will feel gassed during a 3-mile run. The best/worst part about running is that every run could be different. Because you have a bad run, does not make you a failure. The important part is to keep going. Results do not happen overnight. Consistency is the key to running!
For more fitness and tips for new runners, check out more from run like a girl.
[…] Shocker. If you have any of my last posts, you will know how much I love running. I could go on and on about the health benefits. One of the greatest things about running is that it is free… as long as you have good weather. Remember that everyone is runner, no matter how fast or far you can run. The most important thing is to just get out there. You can run a few times around your block or map out a long run. Check out this post to learn about my running journey and here to find out my tips for new runners. […]