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Tips for people who want to embark on running

If one of you have made a resolution to become a runner, here are some tips to help you set off on the right foot.

 

Fuel Scarcity aside, people have started taking running as an hobby. With the obesity rate growing not only in adults but children as well, it is normal for people to want to fight this epidemic head on.

If one of your New Year's resolutions is to become a runner, here are some tips to help you set off on the right foot. There is a ton of information out there on how to do it the "right way," and I'd argue that you have to find the way that works best for you!

Get the Right Gear for You:

Shoes:

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Get fitted for a a pair of shoes best suited for you! Visit a store where they are trained on how to analyze your gait and foot type and can determine the best shoe for you. You may have to try out a few pairs before you find "the one" but many of these smaller stores have wonderful return policies that will allow you to exchange them for a different pair if after a few runs you decide it's not the right fit for you.

Sports Bra:

. It turns out if you are smaller chested you can usually get away with wearing a cheaper sports bra, but if you are larger chested, you'll want to make sure you get an accurate measurement and a supportive bra (without having to double up with sports bras). Moving Comfort has a great line for larger-chested women.

Tops and shorts:

Look for fabric that wicks away the sweat and something that you are comfortable with. You want to be able to focus on running not worrying about how your clothes fit.

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Choose a training plan:

When you want to start running, ask around for a training plan or program that would ease you into it. Find a program that matches your needs and personality.

on't be Afraid to Fuel and Hydrate:

Hydration:

Depending on the distance, run with a handheld water bottle or I wear a hydration belt. On the other hand you can opt to wear a Camelback.

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Fuel:

There are many options for fuel. Just as with finding the right shoe, you'll have to experiment with different kinds and flavors to see what works best for you. Grab a few different kinds at a running/sports store and choose one that tastes good and doesn't upset your stomach. I don't typically fuel for distances shorter than 6 miles, but again, every runner is different and you have to do what feels right for you.

Find your Motivation:

Sometimes we need a little motivation to get out the door. Look into local 5ks, whether they are something like a Color Run, Obstacle Course 5k or a charity run. Knowing you have a deadline may help motivate you to get out the door. Also, reach out to friends who are also interested in running. Set a day where you will meet up for a run because it's more likely one of you will encourage the other to lace up and get out the door.

Another thing you can do is get your family involved! Sign up the whole family for a 5k and push the kids in the stroller or have a date with one of you kids and run the race together showing them running can be fun will spark their interest and you may have a future runner on your hands!

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Run Your Own Race:

I think the biggest mistakes a new runner makes is they try to run too fast, too far, too soon. You aren't in competition with anyone else out there. So if you have a friend who runs a 7-minute mile and you're running a 14-minute mile, that's okay! She is running her race and you are running yours. You want to ease into running to prevent injury. Expect things to be a little achy, your knees and chest might hurt if you havent run for a very long time. Friends and acquaintances will often ask: when does running get easier? The truth is: It doesn't get easier, you get better. Just take it one step at a time.

Above all, try to have fun and enjoy yourself on this new adventure.

Happy running!

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