If you have never really run before, it can be a daunting prospect. That’s also true for those have taken break from running or have not been confident enough to take part in a parkrun before.
So we’ve come up with 10 easy ways to help you start running:
1. Get cleared by a healthcare professional: Before starting to run it’s important to ensure your body is healthy enough for the activity. A healthcare professional can advise you on the appropriate exercises or modifications based on your medical history.
2. Invest in proper running shoes: Choose a pair of shoes designed for running that fit well and offer adequate support.
3. Start slow: Begin with a simple walking routine and gradually increase the time and intensity of your workouts to prevent injuries.
4. Increase your distance slowly: Start with a short a walk/run routine for a few weeks and gradually increase your distance each week or every two weeks.
5. Take rest days: Your body needs time to recover, so include rest days between your running to help your body recover.
6. Incorporate cross-training: Swimming, cycling, and other forms of low-impact cardio can help strengthen muscles used in running and reduce your chance of injury.
7. Find a running buddy or group: Running with a friend can aid motivation, help push you further than you might by yourself, and is a great way to catch up and forget that you’re actually running.
8. Incorporate intervals: Alternate between running and walking to help build endurance and improve cardiovascular health.
9. Track your progress: As you get into the routine try to monitor your progress, such as the time you run for. If you want to take things further there are some great fitness watches and apps out there that can give you insights into your running and help motivate you to run more.
10. Stay hydrated and fuel correctly: Drink plenty of water, especially before and after running, and make sure to fuel your body with healthy foods to maintain energy levels.
Remember!!! It’s important to not get frustrated if you haven’t run as far and as long as you might have wanted. Running is hard, but can be very rewarding, so remember that whatever distance you have run is better than no run at all!
The important thing is to be consistent and have patience, you will get where you want to be!