So you have decided to become a runner? Running is one of the best ways to stay in shape and improve your overall health. Before you take those first steps, it is important that you have a plan in place to conquer this goal. Here are five essential tips for new runners to employ so that you will safely enjoy this experience.
Start With a Visit to a Running Store
One of the best things about running is that it requires very little equipment. However, it is absolutely necessary that you start your running habit with a quality pair of shoes. This is not a purchase that you want to take a chance with online. But still, vessi.com would be a good option if you are looking for waterproof shoes.
Visiting a local running store is a good idea for new runners. A trained professional will be able to fit you in the best pair of shoes for your foot arch and running gait. Many running stores will ask you to run on a treadmill and analyze your running gait so that they can recommend the best pair of shoes for your personal needs. Do not try to save money by buying a pair of bargain shoes.
Do Not Feel Guilty for Taking Walk Breaks
When you are just starting your journey in running, you are going to need to take walking breaks as you build up your stamina. This should not deter your efforts or motivation. In fact, walk breaks can be an integral part of your overall training plan.
In addition to working walking breaks into your runs, you can also take days to simply walk and not run at all. This will give your body a much-needed break, provide relief for your joints, and help you to strengthen your muscles. You owe it to yourself to give your body a break as you build up your running endurance.
Nourish Your Body
Behind every good runner is a solid nutritional plan. In addition to nourishing your body with whole and unprocessed foods, you may also want to look into how supplements can help to power you through your runs.
Beware that not all supplements are created equal. You need to do your research so that you choose the right supplement mix to meet the needs of your running goals. For example, Beyond Yourself supplements provide a wide array of products to help you to harness the power of your runs to boost your overall health. You will make the most out of your runs if you properly fuel your body both before and after the sweat session.
Find a Running Group
There is no doubt that running is one of the best solo exercise activities. However, it can also be a great social activity. Your motivation and accountability will increase exponentially if you join a running group. Joining a running group will also provide inspiration on those days when you just do not want to lace up the shoes.
Your local running store is an excellent source for finding a group to fit your personal schedule and your abilities. You can also try a fitness center or online workout groups to get leads on a group that may work for your needs.
Make a Plan
Like any workout routine, you will see more success if you have a plan in place before you get started. Start by listing all of your running goals. Then you can do research to discern how you are going to reach all of these objectives. Writing down your training plan will give you a resource to keep yourself in check.
Signing up for a fun run is a great way to provide motivation for yourself and give you a goal to work toward. Many online forums provide training programs to help you to reach a specific distance. Lean on this free information to help you to design a program to help you to prepare yourself for the race.
In its most basic form, running is all about putting one foot in front of the other. However, taking the time and effort to apply these tips will drastically increase the chances that you fall in love with this activity and make it a part of your everyday routine.
Very informative! 🙂