I've been a runner for most of my life, which is nearly 40 years. Yes, I'm that old... In my younger years, I ran cross-country and track, pushing myself to not only run the hurdles, but run long distance as well. In a way, I liked the challenge of doing the races that no one else liked doing. I'm still that way today, as I push myself to run marathons. It's as mental as it is physical, and most people can do it if they decide to push themselves!
Running is transformative for me. It is not just a form of exercise (although it's great exercise!). Running is therapy. It's worship. It's alone time. It's community. It's thought-provoking. It's inspiring. Running is one of the greatest tests of endurance. I love it.
You might be a runner yourself and agree with all of the above statements. Or the only running you've ever done is when someone was chasing you. You might wonder how someone could find running enjoyable or wonder why anyone in their right mind would ever run 26.2 miles all for a free (not really free) banana. But if you're even thinking about becoming a runner, here are my best running tips to get you started!
1. The moment you lace up your shoes and head out the door for a run, you are a runner. Whether you run 1 mile or 26.2 miles, you are a runner. Whether you run fast or you run/walk, you are a runner. Keep going, run consistently 3-5 days a week, and you'll get stronger, faster, and start to enjoy it more and more.
2. If it's been a hot minute since you've ran any considerable distance, start slow. The C25K (couch to 5K) is a great APP that helps train you up to run a 5K (3.1 miles). It tells you when to run and when to walk, slowly building up your endurance.
3. Speaking of 5K's, go ahead and sign up for one, that way you have something to keep you accountable and something to look forward to in a couple of months. Every city has local races nearly every weekend. They are a fun way to stay motivated!
4. Invest in some running shoes, socks, and clothing. What you wear matters, especially when you start running longer distances. Go to a running store if you can and let them help you find the right shoe for your particular foot and running style. Buy them 1/2-1 size bigger than your usual shoes, as your toes need more room when you run. It took a couple of years for me to find the right shoe. After dealing with a painful runner's condition, plantar fasciitis, I discovered the brand Newton, and I've only worn Newton Kismets with Spenco total support shoe inserts ever since. Lots of people like Brooks. Expect to spend at least $100 on good running shoes. Only wear them for running, and purchase new shoes as they wear out. Depending on how much you're running, that could be every 6-12 months. Socks matter too! If you don't want blisters, you will need to invest in good socks. My personal favorite are Balega Blister Resist. Dry-fit clothing is also a must. Definitely think about running tights or some sort of sliders under your shorts to avoid friction. A hat, sunglasses, and a running armband for your phone are also helpful.
5. If you're not using the C25K APP (meaning you've graduated from it or never needed it), definitely use another free running APP to track your mileage, talk to you, and play music if you'd like. I've used the Nike Run APP for years. Other people use Map My Run, Runkeeper, or Strava.
6. Always stretch and warm up. Don't increase your mileage too quickly or you will get injured.
7. Run in safe places. I prefer running outside on the roads, in nature. Other people don't mind the treadmill, but I absolutely loathe it. Therefore, I have to find safe places to run. My neighborhood is a great start. I also like parks with running trails and water fountains. Just make sure you choose places that are safe with plenty of room and always watch out for dogs. Run against the flow of traffic that way you can see what's coming.
8. Make it fun! If it's time you look forward to, you'll keep doing it. If you don't enjoy it, you'll find excuses not to do it. I listen to music, podcasts, and audiobooks on my run to pass the time and multi-task. I also sign up for local races to keep it fun and exciting. You can also run with a friend or running community if you like the accountability or just prefer running with other people. I typically run alone, so I can run at my own pace and listen to what I want to listen to.
If I haven't convinced you to be a runner, that's okay, but if you're looking to become a runner, I hope this helps! Now go hit the roads! And I hope to see you at the finish line of your first big race!
"And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us." Hebrews 12:1 (NLT)
Have a great week! ~ Allison
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