Beginning Running

Here's an update of a post that I wrote back in 2012 that might be of use to anyone aiming to start running or wanting to increase their running. 

Running needs commitment. 

My current running goal is to run 3 times a week, complete a half marathon later this year and a marathon next year. 

But I know how hard it is to get started, stay motivated and progress healthily. 

If you're new to running or thinking of increasing your mileage the key is to take your time as your body adjusts to the increased exertion. 

Some simple tips to get you started:

Run/walk to start with. When you start out add short bursts of running to your usual walking. Gradually increase the ratio of running to walking. If you're increasing your mileage walking some of the way can help your body to adjust.

Increase your distance/time by no more than 10 per cent each week.

Stretch before and after running. Focus on stretching your hamstrings, gluteal, calf and quadriceps muscles to help prevent common injuries. Ease down your pace as you finish running and walk for a few minutes before you put the key in the door. Then repeat some of your stretches.

Run at a time to suit your own body clock. Choose a time that suits you. 

Buy the best running shoes you can afford. Ideally buy your shoes or at least seek advice from a shop where the staff have expertise in the products they sell and can match the shoe to your running style/gait. Be honest about your budget at the onset as they might be able to discount a shoe that's about to be discontinued (this happened to me and I made a big saving). 

All women need to wear a good sports bra for running. This is true regardless of your cup size.

Eat more complex carbohydrates on running days. Ideally fuel your body 2-3 hours before a run and try to eat a snack 30 minutes afterwards. 

Take on more water than usual before and after a run.

Listen to your body. Allow plenty of rest days and if you notice sharp pains in your legs or ankles rest for at least 3 days. If your pains persist consult a doctor.

Have the occasional easy week. If you've been increasing your mileage for several weeks allow a lighter week to help ease fatigue and maintain motivation.

Build a running routine. Eliminate excuses by laying out your kit the day before your run. Plan what time you'll leave the house and stick to it. Reward yourself afterwards.

Variety is the spice of running. Plan a few safe routes that you know well and can vary. Enjoy long slow runs but also the occasional short fast one too (with plenty of warm up/cool down time). Run at different times of the day, in different weather conditions, on your own, with a friend or join a running club. No run need ever be the same.

Set a goal. This could be to complete an event or improve your health. With time you'll notice a difference in your strength and muscle tone.

Some runs are harder than others. Some days you'll not be in the mood but the more you encourage yourself to run regularly the more you'll realise the added benefits of running. Talking of which...

10 Reasons Why Running is the Ultimate Minimalist Exercise:

1. It's flexible. Running is easy to fit into your schedule because you can go for a run at any time of day to suit you. You're not subject to complicated timetables and cancelled classes. You can run anywhere even if you're away from home.

2. It's eco friendly. Unlike the use of high tech gyms running outside does not require any heating costs or use any electricity.

3. Running makes you feel happy and improves mental tenacity. Running releases endorphins which gives you that feeling known as runner's high, a feeling of exhilaration. Also, running can be challenging at times (running through wind, rain and up hills) so it can help build up determination and resilience which you can use in other areas of your life.

4. It requires little equipment. A decent pair of running shoes, some high visibility clothing for running in the dark and a sports bra for women will be all the specialist items that you need to buy. You can run in cheap old sports clothes, hardly anyone will see you. Running requires very little set up costs with no joining or membership fee.

5. Running doesn't have to be competitive. You don't have to enter races, you can run with others or alone to suit you. If you run alone, just make sure you take your phone or let someone know your route.

6. Running takes up less time than other types of exercise. You don't need to drive anywhere to take part, simply leave your front door. A short 20 minute run, followed by a quick shower can give you essential exercise without taking up too much of your day.

7. Running is tranquil. In our busy lives running provides an opportunity to get outside, away from the house, the car and the office. Even if you don't have countryside close by you should be able to find a park to run around somewhere nearby. Connecting with nature can be a great stress relief.

8. Running outside can help look after your eyes. Looking into the distance whist running can help relax your eyes - great if you spend a lot of time looking at a computer screen. 

9. Running is meditative. A rhythmic pace can enable your body to experience what psychologists call flow, a state where mind and body work in unison to create a sense of calm and well-being. This is great for relieving anxiety and is why you often feel more energised and positive after a run.

10. Running is a great for all round health. You can get so many health benefits from running such as weight loss, stronger muscles and bones, lowered cholesterol, reduced risk of heart disease, strengthened immune system and improved co-ordination. All in one simple exercise.

Running has been my main form of exercise since I was a teenager. I have tried swimming, yoga and exercise classes but running is the exercise that I always return to. This is because, for me, running is the ultimate minimalist exercise. Minimalism is, in my opinion, about less: owning less and having less commitments and distractions in order to live a more meaningful life. Running fits in with this lifestyle.

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