Running is hard and it certainly isn't always fun. However, in the past two months, I've grown to love running and the happiness that it brings me. As with all new things, there is a learning curve with running and I've learned a lot about what to do and what not to do when it comes to running, often the hard way. So, in order to spare all other new runners some of the pain that comes with making mistakes, here are a few tips that I've learned as a beginner runner.
1. Own (at least) two pairs of running shoes.
Not only is it nice to give your feet a change every once in a while, it's also super nice to be able to swap out when one pair of sneakers gets wet.
2. Don't ignore your body.
If you ache or hurt, make sure to take it easy the next day. If it gets really bad, don't feel bad about taking a day off in order to let your body heal. It'll pay off, trust me.
3. Drink lots of water.
It's summer, so it's naturally hotter. In addition to this, if you've never run before, you're going to need more water to keep you hydrated when you pick up running than you currently do now. Headaches are a nasty side-effect of dehydration.
4. Don't worry about how you look.
I spend the first three minutes of each run pulling my leggings or spandex up to make sure I that I didn't look "fat" in my running tank top. After those three minutes, I always remember that doing this is a waste of energy. I'm running to get in shape and take up a rewarding activity, not to impress anyone.
5. Change up your playlist.
I run my best times when I have new music on my workout playlist. It doesn't have to be brand new music that you purchased, just switching up the songs can really help to keep you motivated better than hearing the same songs during every run.
6. Go trial and error with food.
It took me a few weeks to figure out the best breakfast food and timing before a run. Find a few foods that you can eat without feeling bloated and without cramping. Then, figure out how much time you need to digest it before going out and running. On the other hand, some people prefer not to eat before runs. It's all personal preference.
7. Being out of shape is not an excuse.
For the first week or two, running is downright painful and miserable. You might have to walk parts of the run just because your lungs and/or legs can't handle it yet. Just because you're sore from being out of shape does not mean that you can take a day off. If you keep plugging away at your training, I promise that you will stop being sore after your runs.
8. Being busy is not an excuse.
I understand that some days are very busy. However, although I may have to drive my mom to work in the morning before working my own double shift, this does not mean that I can't find time for a run. It's about making time for it. If that means that I have to wake up at 6 o'clock in the morning as a college student in the summer, I will. If that means that I have to run at 5 o'clock at night after a long shift of waiting tables, I will. If you don't make time to get in shape, you won't have the time.
9. Check the weather before going to sleep.
I set my alarm clock at night based on the temperatures for the next morning. I try to choose a time so that I won't have to go for a run when it's not going to be nice outside. On days when I've slept through my alarm, I kick myself for hitting snooze because I could have been running in weather that was 20 degrees cooler.
10. Use an app that tracks your runs.
I use the app "Map My Run." It's super easy to use and it's really useful. I like it because it saves all of my workouts so that I can see the route that I ran, the mileage, and the time that I ran for every run that I've ever done. I especially like this app because it also speaks to me as I run. It tells me through my headphones every time when I hit a mile marker, the pace that I'm running, and my total time.
11. Use the bathroom before every run.
Even if you don't feel like you need to use the bathroom, just try to go. Trust me, the most annoying thing ever is having to turn around after having barely started your run just to use the bathroom.
12. Stay positive.
Don't think about how hot it is or how slow your pace is on a given day. Just remember that every run and every day is progress. Whether you see it or not, you're making progress. Look at the beautiful scenery around you as you run and make the most of each and every day. If you do, I'm sure that you'll grow to love running just like I have.
