Posted on September 20, 2017 by Jenny Cromack
When you first start running or even think about going running it can all feel a bit daunting. Stepping away from the treadmill to the great outdoors can often seem quite an intimidating prospect. What about all those others runners? They look so fit, they look like they know what they’re doing, they don’t look out of breath. They will think I’m rubbish! Well, let me stop you there….all those ‘other runners’ were once in your shoes, and indeed might even still be, so put your fears to one side and take the first step to running outside.
Here are my top tips for beginner runners.
Clothing & Foot Wear
Most people who know me, know I’m not one for spending loads of money on fancy kit, but I do think there are some essentials that everyone needs:
Ladies, a good sports bra (you will thank me)
Trainers – if you can visit a running shop who can measure your gait analysis and buy a pair of trainers which are suited to you and your running style. You don’t have to spend loads, but running in a pair of trainers you’ve found in the back of the wardrobe is probably only going to lead to one thing….injury. Think of buying a new pair of trainers as an investment, a decent pair of trainers should help to minimise any injuries as you build up those miles.
On the kit note, whilst you don’t have to rush out and buy the latest kit. I remember when I first started cycling and turned up to my first event, I felt a bit out of place as I didn’t have the ‘proper’ kit. Once I bought some (and it wasn’t expensive stuff) I felt much more confident and it really did make a difference to my performance in races. So if you do fancy treating yourself to some new kit, then go for it!
Slowly, Slowly Wins The Race
Who says that to be a runner you have to run the whole distance. If you need to start of running and walking that is fine. As you get fitter, run a little further, walk a little less and overtime you’ll soon be running 5k without stopping.
Fitness Apps
Logging your distances and paces can prove to be highly motivating. You could go old school and log these in a diary, or you could ‘get with the kids’ and use a fitness App such as MapMyRun, Couch to 5k or if you fancy being part of a community then try Strava.
Running Buddy
Some of us need someone else to keep us motivated, someone to give us a pep talk when the going gets tough or drag us out on a dark, cold night. If you want to run but struggle with intrinsic motivation then find a running buddy or join a running club.
Set A Goal
To keep you motivated choose a goal you would like to achieve and set a deadline for it. You might fancy entering a 5k or 10k to give you something to work towards. Once you have your long term goal, break this down into smaller, achievable chunks and tick these off one at a time…you’ll hit that long term goal in no time!