I started running almost five years ago. When I started, I could hardly run one mile without stopping. I'm not going to be running a marathon anytime soon (or ever!), but I am happy to say that I can now run many miles continuously and still feel strong when I've finished. Running is hard, but it feels good to push myself physically. I like that I can step outside my front door and in 30 minutes complete a good, heart-pounding workout. Nothing else is more convenient. Running clears my mind and allows me to be more open to impressions and inspiration. It lifts my spirits and puts a smile on my (very sweaty and bright red) face. I am thankful for running, for the physical and emotional strength it has given me. And I am really thankful that my knees haven't given out on me yet.
If you would like to start running and aren't sure how to go about it, here are some tips:
Wear good shoes. It doesn't really matter what brand they are (you'll find your favorites eventually), so long as they are designed for running. When I first started, I just wore whatever old athletic shoes I had and oh man, was that a mistake! My knees and hips were so sore. I almost turned in the towel right then. But Mike convinced me to try some real running shoes and everything felt better.
Find a buddy (or a really good playlist). As soon as I started running with friends, I was hooked. It made such a difference! Being accountable to a running partner helped get me out of bed and out the door. And having someone to talk to while I ran made the miles speed by. Pretty soon my neighborhood group fell apart and Mike and I became running partners. I can honestly say that it is one of the best things we've ever done for our marriage. I think we are rather lucky that our running speed is compatible. And when one of us just isn't feeling it, the other helps push us along. The time we get to spend together is such an added bonus. (Mike started running a year or so before me with a local running club, which is another really good option for newbies.)
Finally, commit to it. I don't think the distance matters as much in the beginning as does the consistency. Even if you can only run for a few minutes at a time, don't give up. Keep going. Eventually your endurance will increase. Take it slow and steady, but stay with it. I remember the first time I was able to run three miles without stopping. It took me months, but it felt so good!
I am in no way an expert, so if you have some words of wisdom to add, please do.
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Running was my thankful post today too! I ran a marathon once and learned that the intense training wasn't for me. I think another really good tip is pick the time of day that works best for you. If you aren't an early riser then don't choose 5am for running you'll just end up slacking off. Go at a time that you can sustain long term.
ReplyDeleteI totally second this. Choosing a time that works for you is so important! I used to only run at night, but our schedules got busier and we were missing runs. Now early morning works best for us. Getting to bed early is key.
DeleteI like those things. A partner helps keep you going and motivated. Because it has become an obsession I currently try not to let it get in the way of my family life too much. So going early works well for men when my sleep schedule allows it, but today I slept in and Ben has not given me the OK to run yet. Also, getting fitted at a small RUNNING specialty store is great. Your shoes should feel big. A thumbs width from the top of your toe to the top of the shoe!
ReplyDeleteYes, thank you for mentioning the big shoes. My feet actually grew half a size once I started running, so now my running shoes are a full size bigger than they used to be. I think running with Mike helps me rationalize the time away from family. (Although we usually go in the wee hours of the morning, so our kids don't miss us anyway.) It sounds like you are pretty attuned to the needs of your family and are doing a good job of balancing things.
DeleteYes on the shoes feeling big! At least half a size larger than street shoes to accommodate the swelling as you run. I would also add (as you get more into running) to invest in good socks, wicking clothes, and don't neglect your stretching/cross-training, especially if you have given birth, which totally messes up the weight-bearing relationship between your glutes and your quads.
ReplyDeleteAnd don't nix a marathon just yet. It's pretty darn amazing. :-)
Thank you for mentioning socks. They really make such a big difference. And I am the worst at stretching! I need to hang a big sign on my wall that says Stretch. I always feel better after I've done it. Thanks for the reminder.
DeleteOh how i love good socks. When I cannot find one in a pair I fret "that is $7.50 worth of sock there that I cannot find!"
DeleteI love running too. Even while I'm pregnant like I am now if I can get in a mile or two it makes my heart sing. Every season is distinct here (Cache Valley Utah) and I have to change my schedule every three months, which is always a huge adjustment! Once I figure it out (for some reason I can't ever just do what I did last year--probably because the kids are at different stages every year) it's such a relief. I'm glad you offered tips for people who feel like they can't, because I used to think I couldn't, but I CAN! :)
ReplyDeleteDo you run every day?
ReplyDeletenope! i like running every other day, but right now we are working on Mike's marathon training schedule, so we are running 5 days a week.
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