Run Run Run!

It’s true that many people take up a number of physical activities as a part of their New Years resolution to get fit.

One such activity which is easy to do and requires less expenditure than many other activities is… running!

Initially, and with good intentions you may start running more frequently and relatively quickly reap the rewards of feeling fitter and better about yourself. This however can sometimes be short lived and before you know it your training has fizzled out!

There are many who return back to running once the sun starts to shine again! So for all beginners, who have decided to hit the road this summer here’s 9 All In One Running Tips For Beginners …

Getting the right Shoe

Running is a high impact activity and you need to pick up the correct footwear. It’s advised to go to a running shoe store so you can get the right trainers for you. You need to know whether you are under pronated or over pronated or possess a neutral galt. Once you know that, you can buy accordingly.

Modern Gear

Using the most modern clothing materials will help improve your running experience. It’s better to opt for natural fibers like smart wool or bamboo, you could also go for synthetic material like Lycra, polyester, nylon, etc. Just make sure that you don’t use clothes which are made using 100% cotton. This is because cotton absorbs sweat and keeps it trapped!

Pick up a running buddy

If you have an equally motivated running buddy or a group, you will be more focused and it will help to keep you accountable to obtain your goal(s). So if your a beginner, it’s a smart decision to look for a local running group or to hire a private coach who can help.

Plan for Progress

Having a plan of action is absolutely essential. As a beginner you may want to do a mixture of walking and jogging, just whilst you build up your stamina. For example, in the beginning, you could start running for 1 minute and then walk for 5 minutes. You could do this for half an hour. Keep on doing this for the coming weeks and gradually reduce the walking time. In no time, you’ll be running for 30 minutes straight!

Taking time to adapt

Remember that your body may feel drained as it tries to adjust to the new physical exercise. Keep in mind that it could take a couple of weeks/months for your body to adapt. Make-sure you keep chipping away and progress will happen.  Take small steps, consistently everyday.

Eating well

Nutrition is a key ingredient to the success of your running endeavour. Balanced meals of protein and carbohydrates can serve you very well. Consuming high protein foods such as: chicken, eggs, steak and salmon alongside complex carbohydrates such as: brown rice and sweet potato can provide your body with the energy and nutrients it needs to go the distance. Adding in plenty of fibrous vegetables such as: broccoli, spinach, peas, carrots, and lettuce will also help feed your running machine!

Staying hydrated

It’s essential to drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated while you are running. Once your running you may need a sports drink to replenish your body with important salts and minerals. This will help to maintain the electrolyte balance in the body.

Stretch 

Make sure you warm up prior to running. I like to use the foam roller to help me iron out any knots in my thighs and back. After each run it’s also very wise to stretch, especially the muscles in the legs such as the quads, hamstrings and calves. This will ensure you quickly recover from sessions and allow you to keep progressing with your running training.

Take A Break

It’s necessary to take proper rest in between your running activity. It allows the body to recharge and recover. You can’t go a 100mph every single day! So if you are new to running it’s wise to factor in at least 2-3 rest days per week, whilst your building up your endurance. Over time you can increase training frequency as you progress.

Just Go For It…

Running can be extremely effective and rewarding. Just make sure that you buy good quality sportswear and the right shoes for the activity. If you are looking for some great deals. It will help you save some money, whilst providing you with the optimal platform for running success this summer.