Two months ago I got a bee in my bonnet about the idea of running. I’m not sure what it was exactly. Maybe it was Molly tempting me to join her in signing up for a half marathon or my annual flirtation with the idea of running at the first sign of a cool breeze, but whatever the reason, I just felt like running. So I had the motivation, but none of the knowhow. Armed with my fitbit and Hal Higdon’s novice 5k training plan, I started on the pathway to becoming a runner.
Since then, I’ve learned that if you run, no matter how far (or not far) or how fast (or how slow), you can call yourself a runner. I’m still getting used to saying it about myself, but I’m really proud that I’ve stayed consistent. I stuck to my running plan while visiting my folks in Georgia and while vacationing at Bald Head Island. I took a week off when I came down with shingles, then repeated the previous week to to rebuild the stamina I felt I had lost, so with that setback, I’m now on week 6. I woke up this morning before the sun and ran 2.76 miles in 26:25, for an average pace of 9:34. The fact I can run further than 1 mile without stopping is still completely mind-blowing to me. While I still consider myself a super new runner, I have learned a few things over the past couple of months from my own experience, and also from the awesome expertise from my fellow #motherrunners on Instagram (you can follow me here).
Tracking distance can be a complicated thing. I started off tracking my runs with my Fitbit Charge. I figured it wasn’t the gold standard of accuracy, but when I went on the same route as my mom (who was using a GPS app) and found that our recorded distances measured almost one whole mile apart, accuracy became my goal. I started using Map My Run app and after a few hiccups, I found my groove and liked it fine, but a month in, I felt committed to this new running gig, so at the encouragement of my running friends, I invested in a Garmin Forerunner 35. Many people also said they loved their apple watches, and I was tempted, but the Garmin has turned out to be the perfect choice for me and a month in, I adore it. It’s waterproof, durable, accurate as can be, records all my runs, tracks my heart rate, steps, calorie burn, steps, and more.
Stretching isn’t a suggestion; it’s a requirement. Not just my legs, but my lower back as well has a tendency to tighten up quickly if I don’t stretch well after every run. I have also started adding yoga into my weekly routine by using the Down Dog Yoga app. I don’t have the most patience for at-home yoga, but the app lets me choose my length of time and level, plus it’s free. I try to do yoga now 2-3 days a week, but usually it’s just a quick 10 or 15 minute session.
Hydration actually does make a difference. I’m the first to admit my biggest pitfall to “healthy living” is consistently staying well hydrated. I just forget to drink water! But when I forget I am so much more sluggish not only on my run, but all day long. A couple things that have helped me to drink more water are my Berkey, for the fact that it tastes so clean and is room temperature- I’m not a cold water fan, and my ThinkSport water bottle, which I really like for the size and feel of the mouthpiece.
It can take time for your body to adjust. I had a full blood panel done about a month back. I was feeling exhausted in the afternoons and was worried about iron, worried about my thyroid, worried about what I might not even know about (have I mentioned I have hypochondria tendencies?). The result? All my levels were great- iron, b12, etc. Vitamin D was a little low (I have since started on a supplement), but the doctor’s opinion was that my body was just adjusting to this new fitness routine. Apparently even though I worked out regularly, running is just a different animal that my body was taking time getting used to. Oh. She also suggested I make sure I am drinking enough water 😉
Cross training is important. Confession. I have not been great about making it to Burn Boot Camp. Part of it is our new routine; with homeschooling in the mornings and David leaving early, I either have to make it to the 5:00 AM class or not at all. I also try to use morning time to do blog stuff, so it’s a battle to see which activity wins out. I’ve done a few solo strength workouts but am missing doing regular weighted workouts. I feel like it makes a definite difference in my stamina and overall feeling of strength. I need to work on this. Suggestions welcomed!
I have to consider safety. I put a call out on Instastories asking for suggestions for feeling safer while running and received a ton of great suggestions!
- reflective running vest
- knuckle lights
- texting husband or friend with your starting time and route
- no headphones
- use a headlamp
- take a self defense class
- run with a buddy
- wear light colors
- run with your phone
- buy a road ID
- be aware of surroundings
- make eye contact with people you pass
- don’t wear high ponytails
- change your route on the regular
- Road ID app
- pepper spray
I think it sucks that we even have to think about some of this stuff, but we do. I just bought this key chain pepper spray and honestly, I’m happy to have it for both running and for day to day life. I’m not an overly paranoid person, but I never mind an extra layer of safety.
Shoes make a big difference; and not just running shoes. I did buy a new pair of running shoes before I got started. I went to Fleet Feet and was measured and assessed. I overpronate and have pretty flat feet. It turns out the Brooks Ghost shoe works well for me. However, I was still wearing $5 Old Navy flip flops most of the time and I started to pay for it. I developed pain in the arch of my foot and started having concerns about plantar fasciitis as well. After a few days of icing and rolling my foot out on a tennis ball, I decided my days of cheap shoes were behind me.
I polled Instagram (can you see I do this a lot?!) for supportive shoe suggestions and received the most responses I’ve ever gotten. By a landslide people suggested Birkenstocks, so after a lot of contemplating, I decided on the Mayari Sandals in Stone… and I am in LOVE. Hailey asked me yesterday if I own any other shoes because now they are all I wear. It took about 2 weeks to break them in, but I’d buy them again in a heartbeat. I’m actually considering buying another pair to use as house shoes since we don’t wear shoes in our home. I’ve also heard good things about Oofos, so I might get a pair of those for inside the house instead, since they are half the price.
I have to accept that some runs will suck. Being that I am a plan follower, I missed a morning one day and tried to run around 11:00 AM instead. It. Was. Freaking. Terrible. Was it the heat? The humidity? What I ate? I have no idea but it was the most miserable 1.75 miles ever because every step felt forced. It happens!
And now I have a few questions for fellow runners!
How do you stay motivated once the novelty fades? I still have the new runner high, but I can see sometimes that it is starting to fade. I really love sharing my runs on Instagram because I find it holds me accountable and the encouragement from others is helpful. But besides that- how do you stay motivated?
How do you keep your mind occupied/ not staring at your watch? Right now I listen to podcasts and it definitely helps the time pass. However, sometimes I still find myself staring at my mileage. Any tips?
Running coaches: are they helpful? First, let’s be honest, I’m training for a 5k, not a marathon, so I don’t need a coach, but I’m just curious if anyone has used one and what they liked of didn’t like about the experience.
Sports Bra: Lululemon Mind Over Miles
Top: Zella Z Tee (currently 50% off!)
Skirt: Lululemon Pace Rival Skirt
Socks: Balega Women
Rings: QALO Stackable
John J. Stathas says
You are the cutest, most stylish, runner on the planet! Motivation? Keep your “eye on the prize” = 5K. Running can be a meditation. You don’t need to keep filling the mind up with “stuff”. When is the 5K? Proud of you. (Must be in the genes:)
Brittany Dixon says
As usual, you hit the nail on the head, Dad! I think I go a million miles a minute all day long so if I don’t have something going through my head, it feels like wasteful time, but a little mediation and breathing focus could probably do wonders for me. No 5k on the books yet, but I need to fix that. Love you! <3
Jenn says
Races are always a great motivator! Also just running because you want to! I dont run far and only run 3x/week (because xtrain is necessary for my body after babies). It makes me enjoy it way more and never feels like a chore! I had a running coach way back before kids to help me run a faster half and had a great experience! Good luck with the 5k! Running is awesome!
Jenn says
Also whats wrong with a pony tail??
Brittany Dixon says
I think the logic is that it makes it an easy target for someone to grab and drag you. A terrible thought, but it was mentioned to me more than once, so I wanted to include it!
Heather says
Wow. I mean, I get it, but I don’t know. At some point I feel like if someone bigger and stronger is out to get me, my hairstyle is probably not going to make much of a difference. They could pull long hair just as easily. I know that I personally, as someone with anxiety, can’t focus too much on every little thing that could go wrong in life. I would never leave my house!
Brittany Dixon says
Totally can’t stress about every possibility in every situation. I just had that suggestion sent to me several times so figured it would be worth including! I wear braids a lot and the same could be said for them 🙂
Rachel says
Kudos to you for sticking with running! Sometimes I wish I was a runner, but I’m just not. I’ve never ran a full mile in my life. I dislike it, and I’m terrible so I’ve stopped trying to force it lol. There are plenty of other exercises I enjoy and would rather do. BUT, I wanted to comment to also say I got my first pair of Birks this summer and I LOVE THEM. Omg. So comfortable. I have the Gizah, (I think that’s what they’re called? They’re the ones that sort of resemble flip flops), and my feet and legs are thanking me for the investment. I used to take my daughter out for walks for MILES in $3 flip flops. Not a good choice 😉 I also have a pair of Oofos on my birthday list for around the house. My entire house is hardwood flooring, and when I’m on my feet all day I can definitely feel it in my whole body. Slippers can get too hot, and it would be so nice to stand on something softer and supportive while cooking and cleaning 🙂 Please let us know if you get a pair and what you think!
Brittany Dixon says
Aren’t Birks just amazing!?! I heard they are coming back into style, but honestly I don’t care either way because they feel SO good, ha 🙂 And I will definitely report back if I get a pair of Oofos!
Regina Parks says
Try taking breaks from wearing your watch. Itll help you get used to not looking at it all the time. Once you establish a few routes you utilize a lot, you’ll know the mileage for those so itll be easier to run ‘naked’ and get lost in the run. I dont usually run with music. I like to use my runs to get lost in my thoughts. I’ll use it occasionally if I’m during a long run or running with the stroller and the baby needs it to help settle and fall asleep.
Motivation: sign up for a race! Run with a friend {you can even have a long distance friend where you run the same distance separately together}. Mix up your route. Mix up your run {intervals, Fartlek, progression, speed}. On days I really dont want to run but know I need to for my mental health, I give myself a set time. Go out for just 5 minutes. If you still want to stop, then do. Most of the time you’ll find those 5 mins give you the motivation you need to keep going.
Brittany Dixon says
Oh man, you just used a couple words I definitely don’t know the meaning to- haha! But I love the idea of different challenges. Right now I just get focused on getting the distance done as quickly as I can. I totally need to chill a bit!
Beckett @ Birchwood Pie says
Congrats Brittany! I didn’t know that you were a new runner. Your paces are awesome especially for someone who started training in the summer. For ongoing motivation, running is going to get a ton easier once the weather cools down. I also like to mix up my running routes so that I have a change of scenery.
Brittany Dixon says
I can not WAIT for cooler weather; I think you’re right and it will reinvigorate me! Thanks for the encouragement 🙂
Jessie says
I started running in 2010 – at the time I was a former D1 college athlete who needed something to do. So I started running. I’ve run 13 half marathons, 3 full marathons & quite a few handfuls of other races since then. And my advanced apologies because I’m sure this comment will turn into a 3 part novel.
How do you stay motivated once the novelty fades?
I think the novelty still ebbs and flows for me – fall weather always brings a renewed love for running. Cool mornings and lower humidity makes me smile. Being registered for a race keeps me going since I want to be well trained and able to run my best race. I also make it a point to meet a friend once a week or more if I can. That way I can’t change my mind because someone is counting on me. Find new routes too, I love running through other neighborhoods and checking out all the houses! I’ll map something on the MapMyRun internet page so I can tell if a route will be the right distance or not before I start.
How do you keep your mind occupied/ not staring at your watch?
I use running as my time to think or not thing depending on the day. Sometimes if I have a lot going on it’s nice to turn off my brain and listen to some music or just focus on my breathing. Other days, I have a lot going on and I want to think it through. But also, even 8 years deep some runs I look down at my watch every 2 minutes and the miles DRAG. When I’m training for a race runs also take on more specific purpose. 1 x speed workout, 1 x easy run + 1 x long run.
Running coaches: are they helpful?
I think when you’re starting out it’s easier to make big gains and continue progress towards being a faster runner. Overall, I think what a coach provides is an outsiders perspective on your true capabilities. Sometimes running at a certain pace sounds really scary and fast to me – but a coach recognizes that based on fitness levels or other performances that you are capable of running that. There’s also so many approaches to coaching that I would get a little more running under your feet so you know YOUR STYLE of running before you look into coaching.
Ex : I only run 3x per week. I’m willing to do 4 if the weather is AMAZING or if my husband really wants to do a shorter run. Some coaches don’t work that way, so it wouldn’t do me any good to work with one who wanted me to run 5 days per week.
An overall thing to remember about running? It’s continually humbling. I have runs where I could run forever and it feels effortless and I am moving QUICK. I also have runs that feel like a slow slog through peanut butter. And both are normal. Sometimes it’s really obvious why a run sucks – it’s the heat of the day, you ate something weird, you haven’t hydrated properly, and sometimes it just IS WHAT IT IS.
Brittany Dixon says
Your comment has me SO excited for fall weather! We got a tease of it a couple weeks back and now I’m chomping at the bit for that lower humidity to return. I love what you said about just using the time to think things through. I could probably benefit from some true mindless time, so that’s a great idea. Thank you for all the info!
Jaclyn says
Hi Brittany! Longtime reader here (ever since I needed weaning ideas for my oldest…who is now in 1st grade!). I am so excited to see your post today…I just turned 35 and started running earlier this year, too! I got the R3 by Roll Recovery at my local running shop, and it has done wonders for my sore feet. I was always a cheap-o flip flop wearer until this year, too. My feet can’t handle unsupportive flat sandals anymore. I picked up some Olukai flip flops and now that they’re broken in (only took a few days), they’re amazing.
I’m trying to stock up on activewear that is functional and flattering and that I can layer in the upcoming colder months (I live in Colorado). I’d love for you continue to share what gear and clothes work for you in the future!
Brittany Dixon says
Happy belated birthday!! And thanks for reading for so long; how do we have first graders?! Crazy.
David loves his Olukai flip flops, too- such a great brand! I tend to really like Zella and Lululemon (#basic ;)), but would love to branch ut and find some other brands to try. If you find any good ones you love, I’d love for you to share, too!
Kara says
I started running in 2010-ish; a friend suggested we do the Couch to 5k program. As an avowed non-runner, having the accountability of a friend kept me honest…and I full on caught the running bug. Nobody’s more surprised than me!
Motivation: Races do the trick for me, but I can’t be in a constant state of training. Knowing that the effort is always worth it; I’m a better version of myself after a run. I’m more productive and much nicer (ha!) to my family if I’ve invested in myself.
Mind: That can be tricky for sure. While you mentioned not running with headphones, I’ve always run with them (just in one ear). Lately, I switched to AfterShox which are bone conducting meaning my ears are wide open (big fan, highly recommend). A killer playlist helps me take my mind off the miles, as do a good audio book. Also, mixing up my route – sometimes, old faithful is boring.
Enjoy the journey!
Brittany Dixon says
I will have to check out AfterShox; thank you for the recommendation! We did just sign up for Spotify, so I should just start curating a list. I love the idea of just zoning out and jamming out!
Laura says
Such a fun post to read! I mentioned on your Instagram post that I’m the opposite right now- I can find the time for my classes, but not my running! I’ve tried running in the morning, but I felt my body never adjusted (picture cold, bone dry Colorado air pumping through your lungs first thing when you wake up), and running on a trail in the dark even with a headlamp and bear spray was honestly just scary for me. I didn’t feel much safer on the roads. And I just didn’t enjoy it as much as I normally would- I was just out there to “get a run in”. So, for me, I’ve always just gone trail running because I love it. I feel so strong and powerful and inspired running by myself on a trail (during daylight hours!). I’ve been on and off trail running since I was in my early 20s. I suppose I have a different running philosophy than most- I have never timed myself or clocked my distance! It just doesn’t matter to me. The novelty of running has never really worn off for me, even when I was out 5 times a week, because I just genuinely love it, and have always just been motivated by that “feeling” of running, how how great I’d feel after. And like you said, some days of running just plain suck. Those days I just walk or end it early. I would have days where I’d feel like I went fast, and days that were slower. I’d have a general idea of distances, but again, I could really care less about the numbers. I’m just out there to enjoy it, and so if I’m not feeling it, I’ll just turn back. I did train for a marathon relay once, I think my leg was about 7 miles of a flatter stretch, and I just didn’t like it. It was way crowded, I had to get up way too early which messed with my stomach/ eating routine, and I totally wouldn’t have run that far by choice that day (drizzly, humid weather when I lived in the Midwest). I ended up pushing myself too much and was sore, close to injury for the next week afterwards, and I also felt the desire to stop running for awhile. Anyhow, now approaching 40 and I’d love to get more frequent trail running in. I’ll be attempting some short trail runs outside my classroom when the weather cools and I don’t *need* to shower after. As far as shoes- I only run in the barefoot Merrell Vapor Glove shoes. I feel they have really helped me strengthen my feet and made me more conscious about my gait. They are the same as my hiking shoes (which I can actually say, I have been able to keep up with, since I can bring the boys!).
Lisa says
I am a running coach so if you ever want professional(ish) advice feel free to reach out to me before shelling out money for one! I am a collegiate runner who still competes competitively. I run for the Brooks ID elite program so I loved your shoe choice! I do everything from 5ks to marathons and have been a cross-country and track coach for 10+ years. SO I’ve got you covered from a training plan standpoint should you ever want to venture out or want something more personalized!
Brittany Dixon says
Thanks so much for the offer, Lisa! I might take you up on that at some point!
Amy says
I’ve been a runner for about 12 years. I always ran with my husband until our babies came along. Now, Mama runs by herself before everyone wakes up! I use that time to just think and daydream. I don’t wear earphones because I don’t think it’s safe to be on the street without being able to hear what’s going on around me. I ran almost 20 miles this weekend between Saturday and Sunday and it is just mentally freeing to not be “mom” for that time. I’ve also run many races up to half-marathon and never used a training plan or a fancy watch. I track my time and then use the mapmyrun website when I go home if I want to know my distance and pace. Don’t get too caught up in the numbers. Just enjoy it and listen to your body! The weather was finally not hot and humid this weekend and my body was so happy about that!
Brittany Dixon says
Ah, my biggest pitfall- getting caught up in the numbers! Thanks for the reminder to chill out and just enjoy the ride… or the run 😉
Joy says
Such a fantastic read and I love reading the comments on your follow-up questions! I will add to them, though they’re probably going to be long-winded 🙂
I have a major love/less-love relationship with running! I love having it in my wheelhouse of exercising but I always prefer a good boot camp or HIIT workout that incorporates sprints vs. long runs. That being said, when I was fresh out of college and learning how to balance a 9-5 with exercising (and missing my amazing college gym), I needed a good exercise challenge and I decided to train for my first half marathon. So I’ve definitely have been down the path you’re currently on being bitten by the running bug.
Fast-forward to 5 years later and while I’m currently in a non-running cycle (love my HIIT classes way too much + limited time in my schedule), I have figured out a few tips that have helped me in my running journey:
– Gear matters, but less is more (for me) – when I first started I left every race I did with pretty much a full Amazon cart of “gear I had to have” but now I love my running watch (also a Garmin), Flip Belt for keys, phone, etc. and Bluetooth headphones (eliminate the cord bouncing which drove me nuts) and that’s it! Add in a foam roller and frozen water bottles (to roll my feet over) and I just get.out.the.door.
– Some runs do just suck. I tried to figure out a pattern – for awhile if my first 2 miles were tough the next 5 would be easy, but then sometimes the first mile would be great, and so would miles 3, 5 & 7 but the even # miles would just drag. To me it all came down to mind set and with the exception of training for a race, I try to stop my runs while they’re still fun. This means some runs are 2 miles and some 5 milers turn into 7-8 cause I was in the groove. Running was for exercise + mental health and sometimes I just had to listen to body/mind clues.
– Motivation – the novelty def wore off and wore off hard after I finished my first 1/2 marathon. I ended up realizing that I had just completed a HUGE goal and it went so well, but my body was craving other forms of exercise and not just 5-7 days a week running. So I let myself take a break and then picked a fun 10k to sign-up for and eased back in. Now every time I run I just remind myself the goal of the day (i.e., I’m training, I’m enjoying working out outside vs. inside, stress relief, etc.) – that helps me focus on that specific run.
– Music/Audiobooks/Podcasts – I favor music 95% of the time but if there is a good podcast that can pass the time quickly! I build my playlists on Spotify and add new songs to them all the time. I also try to not listen to the playlist except when I’m working out so it feels like a treat to listen to those tunes (super cheesy, but hey, it’s the simple things!) Also, Spotify has some fantastic running playlists (set-up by BPM), cardio playlists and more that are updated with new music all the time.
– Mileage Watching – sometimes if I find myself obsessing over the miles, I make it a challenge – i.e., how fast can you finish this mile, 20 second sprints every few minutes (easier on a treadmill), or I remind myself how many songs it would take to finish a mile (usually 3-4) and that helps pass the time.
Happy running – can’t wait to hear how this journey continues for you!
Brittany Dixon says
I love these tips, especially the idea of stopping when the run stops being fun. I haven’t actually signed up for a race, but I feel like I should so I can train for it, do it, then switch up exercises again and ease off of it a bit so I’m not just running, because I fear burn out too! Thanks! 🙂
Holly says
Hi Brittany! This is a great post. As a fellow runner, I can identify with so much of what you have discovered. I will say that taking a break from the watch can feel very liberating and reorient your focus to the simplicity of running and things around you. I am currently training for my 5th marathon and I do not use a watch. I do have a running buddy and I mooch off hers for our long runs ;)…which brings me to the joy of having a running partner. I ran cross country in college and, after leaving the team, I ran solo for the next 15 years or so. The last couple of years I have been running with a dear friend and it has brought my running to a different level. It took me awhile to meet the right person, but it has been such a blessing. I also feel safer on our 5:30am runs when I am not alone. Always happy to chat running! Best wishes on your training!!
Brittany Dixon says
Thanks for your comment, Holly! And I agree; I’d feel safer with a buddy too. I worry I will slow other people down, but it’s probably something I just need to get over 🙂
Melissa says
I have followed you for years and SO excited that you are getting into running. It is such a good thing for the body and mind. I think 🙂 Nothing makes a bad day better than a quick jog around the neighborhood.
I always feel like signing up for a race keeps me motivated to get out there. I find a training schedule and it gives me a sense of a “to do” run for the day which gives me the motivation to get out there. If I’m not training for anything I remind myself how good it feels when I am done.
Podcasts were totally my thing while marathon training. But I also found that making my own music playlists ensured that every song that played was a favorite. Just enjoying the music helped the time fly by. But those long runs… podcasts for sure.
Brittany Dixon says
Haha, I can totally relate to the “how good it feels when it’s done” feeling! Thanks so much for your input and for reading for so long! If you have any podcasts you love, send them my way 🙂