“There are clubs you can’t belong to, neighborhoods you can’t live in, schools you can’t get into, but the roads are always open.” – Nike
10. Get out the door! It is better to run for one mile than to think about running five.
9. Set your goals high. Make sure you have a running goal to accomplish. This will keep you focused. I suggest take it further and write goals for everything in life, from work to family.
8. Try some different running workouts. Add some intervals, a tempo runs, fartleks, a long run, or progressive runs to your routine.
7. Get a running watch. Keep track of how long you have ran and how much time it took. You could even get a GPS watch that stores all this running information for you.
6. Hit the trails. Running on grass instead of pavement can help prevent injuries. Your legs will thank you.
5. Strengthen that core. Sit-ups can help prevent the dreaded side stitch. Also, drink more fluids to help with cramp prevention.
4. Keep track of your runs. Log how far you have run, and how long it took you. You can do this in a running journal, or a running log online.
3. Get a running buddy. It is easier to stay motivated if you have a friend or if you are part of a team.
2. Get a pair of running shoes. Running is a relatively inexpensive activity. The only thing you really need to invest in is running shoes. Find a good pair. If you know your foot type, you can find good deals online by comparing prices of Men’s Running Shoes or Women’s Running Shoes.
1. Have a plan! Here are two great comprehensive programs that can help you achieve your goals. Just a beginner runner? Try going from the couch to running a 5k. Considering the marathon? Here is the best program out there – 100 day plan for running a marathon.
Twitter
Facebook
{ 19 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Sarah,
I just came across your blog – its excellent, glad I stumbled!
I just started running long distances recently, and I’m so into it. I could barely run 1/2 a mile a few years ago, and lately, something changed in me and now I have this strange energy which has come from somewhere and nowhere.
A running buddy was quoted in this post. I’ve tried running with other people, but just don’t seem to find anyone who wants to do the same kind of running as me, if that makes sense. Its either too far, or they want to walk for a bit…..its really frustrating. At one point, I enjoyed running with someone else, but now I’m put off it for this reason. I love running on my own, but then also feel like it may be a bit dangerous sometimes, because of the routes I choose to take through narrow country roads. I’m sure others can understand?
Have fun on your fishing trip! Victoria
Like the tips!! I agree with the above poster, finding a running buddy is tough.
Yay! One week to go
We missed you!!
i was always in denial…but my “running/jogging/panting” tip is: If you got fug feet, give in and buy the WIDE shoe size. Makes life a bit better. xoxo miss you.
i like having someone else around me on my really long runs on saturdays which is why i run with a group, but more and more i find myself either speeding up or slowing down to run alone…NO TALKING!! i just want to run!!
thanks for the tips. Sometimes we all need a refresher!! running buddies are KEY! I don’t think I’d make the long runs without my running group. I have to talk and be entertained while I run. High maintenance I know!
the tips are spot on. have fun fishing and stay safe (gee i sound like a mom hah!)
Good tips! I’d also suggest having a gait analysis if you’re a beginner, and most importantly, when you’re out there, just HAVE FUN!
OK I love that first one (er, I guess that tenth one). I can completely psych myself out of a workout when I think of how grueling it will be, but it would be much better to AT LEAST do a scaled-back version, right? Duhhhhhh, Cassie.
#4 definitely helps!
I love your blog, this post especially (I’ve only recently found you). I agree, running with a group or a friend is great, I generally prefer to run alone though. However, now I’m dreaming of trying a triathlon with all the cross training I wish I had a training partner but can’t find anyone with the same goals.
Trail running has definitely been the best for me … I can’t see everything ahead of me.
Excellent post!
For all new runners (and even some expereinced runners) we advocate having your gait analysed before you embark upon your first run, so that you can get some sound professional advice to reduce the risk of injury.
A gait analysis with a Podiatrist or in a running store can highlight biomechanical abnormalities which may cause you problems if you are not wearing the correct shoes or have the necessary orthotic support.
Hi Sarah,
I like your tips!
I work for Oxfam. We currently have places for the famous Great North Run, beautiful Royal Parks Half Marathon and unique Run to the Beat Event.
At Oxfam we treat our runners like the heroes they are. We support you every step of the way and cheer you over the finishing line.
What’s more, run with Oxfam and know your footsteps are echoing around the world, helping passionate, determined people like yourself.
Determination is everything. Run for Oxfam.
Would you consider putting a link to our site on your blog? We would be very grateful!
Here is the html code for adding a link:
Open in same window:
Run the Royal Parks Half Marathon for Oxfam
Run in Run to the Beat for Oxfam
Run in the Great North Run for Oxfam
Thank you!
Hannah and the Oxfam Running Team
Oxfam – official charity for the London Marathon 2011
The Edinburgh Marathon festival 2011 is in association with Oxfam
Thanks for this post! I’m a person who keeps on trying start running, but has lost the motivation many many times. #3 works! I have a running buddy, who cajoles me into going.
Hey! What’s the dealio with the Vegas group run?
great tips!
have fun fishing!
this weekend I shall hit the trails.
never have.
ever.
I LOVE trail running! I’m looking forward to hitting the trails tomorrow!