How to Start Running

Quite often the hardest part about starting a running program is getting motivated. The difficulty is when you are a beginner jogger, no workout feels really good until you have gained enough of a fitness level and put enough miles behind you that you feel comfortable running.

Tips on How to Start Running:

Begin with a run/walk routine. Depending on your fitness level, you will best be the judge as to how long your run/walk ratio is. The important part about the run/walk ratio is to continue increasing the amount of time you are running until you are running 100% of the time. Start each run with a brisk five-minute warm up and finish every run with runner’s stretches.  Motivation tends to be one of the hardest hurdles, especially for beginners because they have not reaped the benefits of their training yet.  Seasoned runners have the experience of knowing the benefits of running, but still deal with lapses in their motivation.  The following six pointers should help to tackle some beginner’s setbacks.  

1. Make your run a priority. It’s an investment into your health. When I am not training for a run, I keep a regular schedule of running Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with a longer run on the weekend. If I don’t make it for my Monday run, I do it on Tuesday. I very rarely ever deviate from this routine.
2. If you do have to miss a workout, don’t feel guilty, just get back into your runs as soon as you can.
3. Find a running partner. There is nothing quite like a running partner to keep you motivated.
4. Keep a training log. You will be very proud of your progress, especially when you see improvements. You will also be less likely to skip a run.
5. Only increase your mileages by 10% a week to avoid injury.
6. Set a goal. Your goal might be a certain distance or an organized run, but if you have something to work towards, you will be more motivated to train.

You’ve decided to start a running program - great choice, but nobody said it was going to be easy. If you are struggling, keep in mind that running will make you feel good about yourself in so many ways. And when you feel good about yourself, so many areas of your life will benefit as well, such as health and relationships. It’s an investment in yourself.

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