Much like with any other hobby, running involves a learning curve that you’ll need to adjust to. Be ready to have questions and to ask seasoned runners for answers. Before you lace on those shoes, though, take a quick jog through our quick and easy beginner’s guide to running. With regular practice and a positive outlook, your new hobby can keep you in shape and give you goals to strive for.
Walk First
Ease gently into your new routine by setting aside 30 minutes a day to walk. Get your body used to exercising at the same time every day. Once you’re comfortable in your routine, gently push yourself to walk a little farther or break into a light jog. Even after you’ve trained to run longer distances, intersperse bouts of running with a few walking breaks.
Dress Your Feet Well
Foot health is more important than ever when you start putting extra pressure on them every day. Get to know your feet—do you have high arches or fallen ones?—and shop for running shoes that suit your individual needs. Think about where you’ll be running, too. Asphalt requires different cushioning than an indoor track.
Mind Your Breath
If you’re a first-time runner, expect a certain amount of huffing and puffing in the beginning. Don’t push yourself too hard right away; if you feel too wheezy or out of breath, slow to a walk to let your breath catch up. After a few months, your breathing should feel stronger. If it doesn’t, talk to your doctor about getting tested for asthma. It won’t stop you from running altogether, but you’ll need a little medical help.
Nurture Your Body
The first way to make your life healthier is to fuel your body properly. What you eat has a direct effect on your body’s physiology, performance, and aesthetics. It is important to take care of your body by keeping it hydrated and eating nutritious meals. Add more organic fruits and vegetables to your diet, as well as healthy fats. Plus, consider having protein with all your meals. Food diversity is not only good for your taste buds but for your gut.
Otherwise, you’ll end up consuming junk and processed foods. These foods are associated with chronic non-communicable diseases (type II diabetes, hypertension, and some cancers). These foods are devoid of nutrients and contain additives, preservatives, vegetable oils, sodium, and sugar, which damage your organs.
Warm Up and Cool Down
Warming up before you exercise and cooling down afterward are both essential for preventing injuries. When you warm up, you increase your heart rate and prepare your muscles for physical activity. This can help you avoid pulled muscles or other strains.
Also, do not forget to cool down. This helps your body slowly return to its resting state so you don’t feel dizzy or lightheaded. Learn how to cool down.
Take a Pre-Workout Supplement
Whether you need a pre-workout supplement will depend on your goals and current health. If you have a specific health issue, such as anxiety, high blood pressure, or low blood sugar, it may be worth looking into a specific supplement that takes those needs into consideration. Emotions, moods, and motivation can all play a role in how motivated you are to work out.
If you don’t have any of these issues but are simply looking for a way to feel more energized and motivated before you exercise, there is no reason why you shouldn’t take a pre-workout supplement. Choose a high-quality organic product such as Organic Muscle pre-workout which boosts your stamina and strength while nourishing your body (use code FITNALL).
Pick a Race
A prize or end goal is the perfect motivation for the novice runner. Look up races in your area, and start training for a 5K! A race on the calendar keeps you enthusiastic about training and proud of your new hobby. Get a few 5K races under your belt, then start thinking bigger. Training for a half-marathon or full marathon will keep you on that track.
As you begin your running career, get off to a strong start. Train without overwhelming yourself, and treat yourself to a pair of shoes that will keep your soles and ankles healthy. This quick and easy beginner’s guide to running will help you tackle your new hobby with enthusiasm.
To a Fitter Healthier You,
The Fitness Wellness Mentor
