Planning on running soon and reinventing your fitness and health? If yes, then you have made one of the best decisions of 2020.
There are a few essential tips that you need to consider before you start running. Let’s quickly run through them.
Planning helps
Following a realistic plan will help you improve faster than simply winging it. Realistic might mean not pushing yourself too fast, too soon and risking burn out – or equally, not slogging around a half marathon horribly underprepared.
If you are a complete beginner, then the start with someone. It assumes nothing beyond a certain amount of willpower, and will get you from panting by the first lamp-post on day one to running 5km without stopping in nine weeks.
You Need Proper Shoes
With a strong will and a pair of good shoes, you can become a runner today. There are a few tools we’ve listed below to help you along the way, but when you start to doubt, remind yourself that yes, you can do this.
There Will Be Hard Days
Your body is turning itself into a runner so there are bound to be some tough days. Maybe you’re chasing a faster time or you want to start running more miles. Whatever it is, there will certainly be days you don’t feel like lacing up. However, if your body is healthy, you will thank yourself after.
Rest
Rest days are a very important piece of running.
Your body is working hard as it builds muscle, endurance and intensity. It needs a rest day to recover. If you skip it, then you are putting yourself at a higher risk for injury.
The best way to take a rest day is to truly rest!
Don’t Skip Stretching – After Your Run
A common mistake many runners make is walking through the door and calling the workout complete.
When you skip stretching you are making a big mistake that can lead to injury and muscle fatigue.
Educate Yourself on Hydration and Nutrition as You Increase the Miles
If you are going on a run longer than an hour you need water and carbohydrates to replenish the nutrients you lost. There are many different ways to fuel, whether you reach for a sports drink or a gel.
Choose what works best for you and your body.
