Running is an incredibly relaxing sport. Difficult yes however the feeling you get when you are done, often described as “runners high”, is like no other. When an athlete is starting out in a new sport such as running they have many questions that are not easily answered. It is important to seek out reliable information from people that have been in their shoes. In no way is this article meant to take the place of advice given by trained professionals or doctors. This advice is from someone who started barely able to walk three miles who is now a daily runner. If this describes what you are looking to achieve then you are in the right spot.
The best thing about running is that there is really no right or wrong way to do about it. With proper running gear, a good attitude and a proper running form it is as easy as putting one foot in front of the other. In the beginning start easy. Over shoot and you set yourself up for injury and failure. Once you feel totally fatigued and unmotivated you will not pick the running habit back up easily.
Once you feel confident enough start jogging. Don’t worry about the intensity or speed at which you are moving but more about the length of time you are able to be on the path. Small amounts of time are perfect for beginners. Ten minutes is enough then start to build up to twenty then thirty. Take a few weeks to adjust to each increment of time. Gradually you will be up to running thirty minutes straight at a nice pace which is irrelevant to anyone else and standards should not be focused on at this point.
It is important to note that true beginners, someone who has never laced up a running shoe should start by enjoying a nice ten minute stroll at a moderate walking pace and move into intervals of running one minute, walking one minute. Once this is maintained for at least ten minutes or until you are uncomfortable go forth with a cool down. Each week you will continue this routine moving up the amount of minutes ran verse walked when done gradually enough you will be running thirty minutes with ease within a few weeks.
It is important to note that the most important piece of all of this is the daily habit of exercise. Run, walk, jog or sprint the fact that you get out there each day is the important lesson. Once the activity becomes habit your body will consistently crave it and it will become the norm for you. The basic tip here is to lace up and open the door. Once this is accomplished the rest is nothing.
Letting your body rest is not optional. It is a must. Your muscles must be allowed to recover effectively in order to grow. If they are continually broken down without time to heal they will burnout. Allow your muscles time to recover. You can do this by continuing to exercise however if accustomed to running try swimming. Use a different group of muscles. This will give the others time to de-stress and in turn build up.
The best part of running is not the fancy running gear, in my opinion it is the challenge of racing. When entering your first race, which should be done after two months of running, there are some etiquette rules to follow. The first and most important thing to remember is that there are people of all capabilities racing. It is best to start towards the end of the pact if you are sure you are unsure of where to go. This way you can follow a decent pace and stay out of the way of faster runners. Stay towards the right side so that people can pass easily and use caution. It is imperative that you cross the finish line having done your best. Don’t worry about where anyone else is in the race so long as you have made it. Pat yourself on the back for you are now a runner!