A Guide On How to Become a Runner
Running is one of the simplest exercises anyone can do. But it is also one of the most intimidating. It can be difficult to run in the right form. And it can also feel overwhelming if you will be running in public.
Intimidation can also come from other runners. Especially those who truly love running and constantly post their routes online. Seeing someone else’s 10-mile run after finishing your 1-mile can be discouraging.
But, none of this should stop you from running. Running is one of the best exercises you can do for your physical and mental health. So, here are some of the best ways to get into running.
- Focus on Form
Starting any new kind of workout regime usually involves investing in new workout clothes and equipment. But this isn’t the case with running. So long as you have the correct sneakers, you can run in anything.
It’s much more important to ensure that you’re running properly. This means hitting the ground with the middle of your feet. And maintaining a long back and neck. This is difficult to begin with. But you will get there with regular practice.
- Seek out Good Sneakers
Even if you wear a worn out old pair of shorts and shirt when running, you need to invest in some good quality sneakers. You can buy sneakers online. But it’s best to go into a professional sports store.
These stores will have assistants who will help you to find the perfect fit for your feet. Everyone has different shaped feet. So a pair of sneakers that fit one person might be difficult for someone else.
You will need to try out different styles of sneakers. So that you can find the pair that will give you the best support. Finding supportive and comfortable sneakers is the most important part of running. Otherwise, you will potentially cause damage to your feet.
They will also provide a buffer between you and the hard ground. So they will help to support your knees and hips as well.
- Consistency is Key
When you first start running, it might seem sensible to only go every few days. This might seem as though it will ease you into the exercise. But this isn’t necessarily the case. There are many ways in which just running a mile benefits your overall health.
You don’t need to run a marathon daily. Just a jog around the block can get you awake and ready for the day. It will help you to clear your head. And get your heart rate up and build muscle.
Even if you don’t think you will be able to run the whole time. There is no shame in taking breaks to walk. Just give it a go!
- Start Small
Even if you have a plan to run a marathon, you need to start small. This can just be a jog around the block. Or a long walk around the park. This is especially important if your body is not very experienced when it comes to exercise.
Trying to force yourself to run for miles straight away is not an achievable goal. You will only hurt yourself. It also isn’t sustainable. As you will become overly tired. And potentially be put off running if you do not do well straight away.
It’s best to start small and build up to more. Running should be fun and make you feel good. So don’t push yourself so hard that you hurt yourself and make it a chore.
- Try Out Some Tech
A trend that has recently appeared on social media is runners posting their routes. These are, generally, so people can show their pride in reaching a milestone. But this can make anyone who sees their posts while lying on the couch feel a little guilty.
So, it can be a little disappointing if you use an app to track your run, only to see that it isn’t as long as others. But these apps are great for tracking your progress. Just don’t focus on the day-to-day updates. And never compare yourself to others.
Some days, you will just be too tired or not in the mood to run very far. And this is fine! Listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard. Using an app will allow you to see how your running has progressed over, for example, six months. This is a much better way to notice your progress than daily. It will fill you with a lot more pride.
