So you want to be a runner but don’t know what to do...
Here are a few tips to get going:
Go to a running store and get fitted for good running shoes. This is so essential as your main running equipment are your shoes. Go to a running store over a general sports store because the folks there are runners and they are trained to assess your gait, your feet etc. and pick a shoe that works well for you. The shoes you get at these stores are typically more expensive but definitely worth the service, attention and expertise that is provided. We have a local running store that we love that supports our business by giving our participants discounts. Contact us if you’d like a recommendation.
Start slowly! There is no rush. If you haven’t run before, begin with short walks and jogs. Just get out there and get moving if you are medically healthy enough to exercise and your doctor has given you medical clearance. Depending on what your fitness level is getting out for even 15-20 minutes of walking/jogging is a huge accomplishment. Start smaller if you need to and work up slowly over a month.
Runners have different speeds! Don’t go all out all the time. You’ll need time to learn the difference between a sprint, an easy run and a moderate pace. One good rule of thumb is that you should be able to hold a conversation during your runs. So go out with a friend, partner or your child and talk. If you can’t talk you’re going way too fast!
Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone is different and you don’t know how much running experience they have. One of the biggest pitfalls for new runners is comparing or getting discouraged if you feel too slow. But the biggest trick is to really just focus on yourself and how you feel moving! Age, size etc. don’t really matter. Enjoy being outdoors, breathing fresh air and hearing the birds sing.
If it all seems too much to get going on your own, there are several programs out there that can help you get started. Of course we work well with beginners and anyone who feels slightly intimidated about the whole thing. You don’t have to have been a runner to learn to love running. We pride ourselves in helping folks discover and love running. So you can check our programs out and see if they seem like a good fit. Just contact us with questions. Happy Running.
Dr. Cory Nyamora is a licensed psychologist and endurance sports coach. He is the founder and director of Endurance – A Sports & Psychology Center, Inc. He provides endurance coaching for beginner and experienced athletes, as well as psychological services to children, adults, and families. He provides trainings for organizations on topics related to the intersections of sports and mental health and overall wellness. Find out more at www.endurancecenter.org or call 510.981.1471.
tags: New runners
