So, you want to be a runner? Almost seven years ago I had this same thought. My family and I were at Gillette Stadium getting ready to watch some 4th of July fireworks. We arrived early to secure a prime spot for watching the show. As we were sitting around waiting, I noticed runners were running through the stadium. Every July 3rd, a local health insurance company sponsored a 5 and 10k race. It was at that moment; I knew I wanted to become a runner. The next day, in 100-degree heat, I started my journey. Was it easy? No! Did I make mistakes? Yes! I made them all. I never took the time to seek out advice. I just grabbed a pair of sneakers (ones that did not fit well) and ran. So that your journey may be a bit more painless, I am offering 8 tips to get you started.
- Invest in the right tools. This includes the proper running shoes, running bra and socks. I recommend taking a trip to your local running store. They will properly fit you based on your gait. They will watch you walk either on a treadmill or out in front of the store to analyze your gait. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have properly fitted shoes. Since it is such an individual decision based on your own body, I really can’t recommend any particular brand. I can say, I wear Brooks and love them. Just as important, running socks. I swear by Balega running socks. These are the most comfortable socks. I never get blisters and are just as comfortable at the end of my run, as they are at the beginning of my run. Lastly, a good running bra. Again, I highly recommend going to a local running store and getting fitted. Brooks makes my favorite bra.
- Invest in an app. There are several apps on the market for runners. Many of them are free, and most can be upgraded for a price. Couch to 5K is very popular. RunKeeper is another good one. You can set the apps so that you are running for so many minutes and walking for so many minutes. RunKeeper has plenty of programs for beginners. I wish I had done this. I started training too fast and too far. My first run was 3 miles. Much too far for my first time out.
- Track every run so you may track your progress. Again, I recommend either RunKeeper or Strava.
- Pace yourself. Slow down and run at a pace you are comfortable running. The risk of injury is high if you go out too hard and too fast. Over time, you will get stronger and faster.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
- Add some simple strength training moves. This helps prevent injury. I strength train 3 three times a week. If you are not sure what to do, drop me a note, I would be happy to make some suggestions.
- Rest days are important. Rest days are part of your training and should not be ignored.
- Sign up for a local 5k. This will give you the motivation and incentive to keep on training.
I hope you find these tips helpful. Running is such a joy for me, and I would love it if more people could experience that joy.
A little bit more about my running journey: I started running almost seven years ago, at the age of 40. I began to lose a few pounds, but it quickly became something more. I love talking to new runners and helping them start their journey. If you are looking for support, advice or just some motivation, feel free to reach out.
