Smiles… happy, giggly smiles. 😀 That was me yesterday! Not only feeling proud for finally feeling like a runner and getting to share my story with yall, but then to read all your comments & feedback just made my day! I loved hearing how some of you struggled like I did with running at first, then went on to run 10ks, half marathons and marathons. AMAZING. ::shakes head in awe & disbelief::.
I also loved hearing from others that have never been (nor care to be) runners, as well as those that used to be runners about how they feel wonderfully fit and healthy without running in their lives. Like I said yesterday, I don’t think you need to be a runner to be incredibly healthy & in shape, I’ve just thoroughly enjoyed it being my personal challenge.
I also found those that suggested tips to be very handy to me as a new runner. Holly & John J. (;)) suggested continuing to track my progress. I think it’s a GREAT tip! If it got John J. to the finish line of a marathon, it has to be good advice! Plus, I love looking back over my notes to see how far I’ve come.
I enjoyed your tips so much, I thought I’d share the tips for beginners that I’ve found to be so helpful in my short career as a runner. These are things I’ve discovered through trial and error.
1. Count in Minutes, Not Miles
When you were the kind of beginner I was, running for a mile felt impossible, daunting and discouraging. But 1 minute? Surely I could jog for 1 minute. And when I did, I felt so proud! These small milestones help create a feeling of success, even early on and are more likely to keep you motivated. Stick with adding on minutes, and eventually you’ll get to those miles!
2. Shoes
Throw out those “running” shoes that you run in, cut the grass in, spend all day at the amusement park in. Get fitted at a running specialty shop for some quality running shoes that are just for running. I kid you not, they make all the difference in the world!
3. Eat
In the beginning I was too nervous that I’d get sick to eat before I ran. And it wasn’t a big deal. But by the time I was getting to week 3ish and running further, I started to feel woozy and nauseous. I found something small, like a spoonful of peanut butter, kept this nauseating feeling at bay without making me feel like I was running on a full stomach.
4. Stretch
Not before running. Before running, start with a walking warm up to loosen the body, but static stretching before loosening up can actually hurt you. Afterwards, however, stretch stretch stretch! My lower back was getting really tight and painful after some of my wogs. Turns out, if I did a better job of stretching my hamstrings, the pain would go away. Who knew? Spend at least 5 minutes stretching after a run to do away with pain.
5. Track your Progress
*See Above* Tracking your progress is easy to do and keeps motivation high. Plus, you deserve to see how far you’ve come!
What is your BEST tip for new runners?
Rachel says
Today, (drumroll please….) I am wearing jeans that haven’t fit in months. I am crediting all my “wogs” and some straight out power WALKS, that I swear kicked my ass just as bad because they were much longer and involved more hills. I am definitely also surprised at myself for enjoying it, because I’ve hated running my whole life.
My tip is also for new shoes. They make all the difference.
Katie @ Healthy Heddleston says
I think those are great tips! I would include.. don’t be afraid to walk when you need to — your body is getting used to everything!
Sarah @ The Smart Kitchen says
I couldn’t even focus on your tips (although they were great, especially for a non-runner like myself) because that spoonful of peanut butter looked so darn good. 🙂
Lindsay @ The Ketchup Diaries says
I used to think that eating before cardio was a no-no because I would burn more fat on an empty stomach. Then I discovered food blogs and let go of that mentality. Now, I ALWAYS eat before a run and notice such a huge difference. It’s amazing and NECESSARY.
Linzi @ Destination 26.2 says
I loved these tips and thought they were great for new runners! I would add – remember not all runs are going to be the best. So if you have a “bad” run shake it off and start the next one with a clean slate. I have had bad runs where I wanted to quit running entirely, but those “good” runs make up for ALL the bad ones!
I would also encourage any new runner to sign up for a race. There is no better feeling than crossing that finish line for the first time. And you automatically get a PR! 🙂
Holly @ couchpotatoathlete says
🙂 Yes keep tracking. I wish I had done that more in the beginning!
I think you have great tips, and for me, most importantly I had to be patient with myself. There will be good runs and bad runs and thats ok!
Am I crazy or are you wearing 2 different shoes in that pic?
Alexa @ The Girl In Chucks says
I’m enjoying your running posts!
I agree with the commenter above about being patient with yourself. I struggle with this a lot. I want to run farther and faster….but I’m not there yet. I have to keep reminding myself that it is okay to go at my own pace. Running ONLY 3 miles is OKAY. I mean, hey, I didn’t used to be able to even do that. I used to not be able to even run 1 mile. I’ve progressed, regardless of how long it is taking me, and that is what is important.
(P.S. I <3 RunKeeper!)
Corey @ The Runner's Cookie says
Don’t let one bad run get you down, and remember the importance of cross-training and strength training! Also: know your body!! Some people can run 100+ miles per week and be fine, while others would get injured running 20 a week. Everyone’s body is different and it’s very important to build up slowly and seek medical advice when needed.
Mary @ Bites and Bliss says
My best tip for new runners is to do yoga- yes it helps with flexability and all..but mainly it helps with breathing!! I used to struggle so much when I first started running with side splits and losing my breath but once I applied yoga breathing to me running, it became 104302820 times easier.
Pure2raw Twins says
Great tips. Another tip would be to just have fun and try not to stress 🙂
Samantha @ Health, Happiness & Skinny Jeans says
Great tips!! I would suggest signing up for a race, such as a 5k to serve as motivation but also because racing is a great experience that makes a lot of runners truly love running. The other would be to find a running partner to keep you company, support you through the tough parts and keep you motivated.
Carolina says
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. When I first started running I didn’t have enough water before, after & during runs, which is key for energy & going the distance.
Awesome tips, love encouraging people to run — it’s fantastic! 🙂
martin says
Wow, it always makes me think, why do such good writers always have such an ugly blog theme. It’s always like that 😀 and dude, why aren’t you making money with your blog?
I’m a blogger myself and I only wish I was able to produce such quality content as you do. Seriously, start putting a little advertisements on your blog, your readers will love it! Mine did…
If you’re not very coding and web development savvy, just go get http://www.socratesforwordpress.com – I use them and they’re awesome. Even if you have any trouble with your theme, just post it to the forums andyou’ll be given feedback in less than one hour. They teach you to make money with your blog too.
Dude I’m tellin ya’, just go check it out, try the trial or something, you’ll thank me 😀
K bye, I wish you luck with your blog 🙂