Starting your journey as a runner can be exciting and challenging. If you have made up your mind to run now, you may likely have considered this sport several times before. However, like many people, you may have given up your dream because you may not know where to begin.
Whether you have started thinking about running because of a friend’s suggestion or your gym instructor’s recommendation, taking those initial steps can feel like the biggest challenge.
At such an overwhelming point in life, finding the right suggestions can make a significant difference in your life. Here are some of the best tips you must consider.
- Take a Slow Start
While you may want to run for miles when you take the first daunting step, it is always recommended to take a slow start. Do not push yourself too hard at the beginning of your running journey. You may end up exhausting yourself or, worse, sustain an injury.
Instead of directly running, it is better to take a slow start. You can begin with a combination of walking briskly and jogging. Over time, you will build your endurance, and your body will give you the green signal to run by itself.
- Focus on Good Footwear
Proper footwear plays an essential role in streamlining your running journey and making it a safe experience. If you ignore the importance of good footwear, you may have to deal with long and painful damage that may restrict you for a long time.
Before you start your running journey, make sure that you visit a store dedicated to providing the right footwear for running, especially suited to your foot type and gait. Try on different styles and types of shoes to find an ideal match for your needs and comfort.
In addition, you must also seek the right socks to ensure your comfort and performance. Socks such as Merino thin wool socks are an excellent choice to keep your feet dry and reduce the risk of blisters. You can try different styles and fabrics to ensure your comfort.
- Remember to Warm Up and Cool Down
Just like any other exercise, you also need to warm up before running. Warming up plays an important role in preventing damage to your muscles and joints before you start running. It gives your body some time to brace itself for aerobic activity.
Similarly, you must also pay similar attention to cooling down. As soon as you have achieved your running goal, take off any extra layer of clothing and sit somewhere cooler. Take a sip of cool liquids and give your body some time to rest.
- Set Realistic Goals
One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a beginner runner is to set unrealistic goals. For example, you cannot expect to complete your 5K in the first week of running. It is important to give your body some time to adapt to the changes in your lifestyle.
You can start by running 2-3 miles on alternative days and pick up the pace gradually. Over time, your body will build endurance, and you will be able to achieve bigger goals. Until then, setting realistic goals will help you stay motivated.
- Listen to Your Body
If someone has told you that pushing through pain is a good idea, do not listen to them. Do not let anyone come between the connection you and your body have. If your body is telling you something doesn’t feel right, listen to it.
Pay attention to how your body feels during and after runs. If you are unable to achieve your daily goal in one go, do not push it. Take rest when needed and seek medical advice if you have prolonged pain. Timely action can ensure a smooth journey for you as a runner.
- Stay Persistent
As a beginner runner, there will be several hurdles in your way. Sometimes, you may miss out on your routine due to the weather circumstances, and other times, you may not be in the mood to run. While dealing with any reason not to run, you must remind yourself about your ultimate goal.
Consistency is key to improving as a runner. Instead of letting the hurdles get in your way, try to establish a regular running schedule and stick to it. You can also have an accountability partner by your side to help you through challenges.
- Celebrate Your Achievements
As a beginner runner, celebrating every achievement, whether big or small, is important. Celebrating achievements keeps you motivated to push yourself a little further and root for more achievements on your way.
Whether you complete your first mile or win a marathon, make sure that you take your time to pat yourself on the back and acknowledge what you have achieved.