Tips to start running for beginners

I sometimes run for health purposes, but also to clear my head when everything goes to (excuse my language) shit. It’s tiring, yet freeing. I know more people start running in times of Covid, and so, I’m here to provide some tips for those who want to start!

1. Short running intervals

Are you super excited to start your running workout? As a new runner, you shouldn’t plan on running the entire distance in one sitting. Divide it into intervals and try to keep them short at first. Don’t be ashamed to walk between the intervals so that you can recover a little. After some time, you can start to lengthen the running sections and reduce your walking: start by alternating 2 minutes of jogging and 2 minutes of walking. Increase your running intervals by one minute per workout until you can run the entire distance without walking.

2. Don’t out run too fast

Your body has to get used to the new tensions and strains while running. Many new runners start jogging too quickly and pay the price for this within minutes. Frustration, overexertion, pain or even injury are just some of the consequences. Therefore, start running at a moderate pace (i.e. where you can easily have a conversation). Even if you feel like cutting loose, you have to keep the same pace the entire distance. Only those who give their bodies time to gradually get used to the new demands will be successful in the long run.

3. Time to recover

Your first run went well and you want to get out again right away? But you have to wait a day before starting the next workout: your body needs to rest to recover from the first run. It has to adapt to the new demands of the cardiovascular system and prepare your muscles and bones for the next run. Plan your workout so that you run one day and rest the next. This simple training schedule can help new runners achieve the greatest training effect and avoid overuse injuries.

4. Run easy, take short steps

Running is a technically challenging sport. Many beginners lack the correct technique and make jogging more difficult than necessary by wasting a lot of energy. Your body develops the coordination it needs to perform the complex series of movements with every kilometer or mile you walk. Try to run relaxed and in good shape. Short, easy strides are more effective than long, powerful strides that act as a brake, slowing your forward momentum with each footstep.

5. Choose the surface

Running on asphalt pavement is ideal for fast running. There’s very little danger of twisting your ankle. However, it’s hard on your joints because the sidewalk doesn’t dampen your steps. That’s why running on this surface is only for very light runners in good shape. / A forest or park floor is soft and provides excellent cushioning. However, the risk of injury increases from roots, rocks and bumps. / A sandy surface trains your muscles and makes you lift your feet. But be careful as it’s easy to overexert your calf muscles. / Tartan (an all-weather synthetic track surface) is resilient. One drawback: it puts a lot of strain on your Achilles tendon. / With the treadmill you train all year round with good cushioning. However, this type of running workout requires you to adjust your form because the belt moves under your feet.

6. Side aches

Many people suffer from side stitches while jogging. Don’t eat anything solid for about two hours before your workout and only drink small amounts. If a side stitch does hit, take a break and walk. Breathe calmly and in a relaxed rhythm. Press your hands against the side that hurts. Don’t start running again until the pain is gone. (And only slowly after that).

7. Take care of your body

Have you just started running? Remember that running is a full-body workout. Your core is the control center. As a result, your arm swing affects every movement from your hips down, including stride length and cadence. To run for a long time, you need a strong, healthy, and stable core. The rest of your muscles also need to be in good shape so you can walk lightly on your feet. Plus, a well-conditioned body helps overuse and compensate for injuries. This applies to all parts of the body involved in running. Regular strength training improves running performance.

8. Cross train

Your heart likes variety, and doing different types of sports also reduces the stress on your joints and spine running. Plus, it keeps things from getting boring. And this helps keep your love of running alive.

Love, Deem/Skye Lewis ❤

You can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Twitch and TikTok

Image source: Pexels