Helpful Run Training Tips

• Commitment. If you start it, Finish it. Follow through with your decision to train with action. Running is rewarding, but it requires rigorous work. A well laid out training structure will help keep you directed, but you are the one that has to put in the time over and over again. Be ready to put in the training time, even when you don’t completely ‘feel like it’.

• Adaptation. If you haven’t spent much time in your life running, plan to undergo a painful adaptation process at the beginning of your training. While running will be improved over years of application, the first 6-10 weeks can make a large impact on your abilities. This process may feel painful and tough some days, but if you keep pushing through it for a few weeks, your body will adapt.

• Run with others. Running is a solo sport, but the training benefits to running with others can help you stay motivated to keep going. If possible, spend time with a more experienced runner. This is one of the best ways to rapidly improve your own abilities. In addition, the social aspect of connecting with other runners across the world makes running a very special sport. Look for local running communities near you to participate in clubs or group runs.

• Injury Prevention. It takes time for your body to develop and adapt to new training programs. Rapidly increasing your activity, especially when it is a repeated motion like running, will increase your likelihood of experiencing an injury. Research stability training exercises you can do in conjunction with your run training.

• Get the right gear. You don’t need much to run, but shoes designed for running can dramatically help your progress. GPS tracking watches or apps are also valuable tools to measure mile split times. Getting into more detailed training, you will find heart rate monitors help identify your working and training HR zones. As you increase in distance and time running, a comfortable water container is invaluable to your experience. Overall, with your gear, aim for lightweight, comfortable gear that doesn’t cause unneeded friction. Find local stores near you and get connected with knowledgeable vendors to help you select the right gear for your needs.

• Proper Rest. It’s easy to get caught up in the desire to get better, but it’s okay to take a day of rest. Your body needs time to recover and rebuild to increase your fitness ability. There may be times that you cancel a workout to give an extra day of rest. It’s okay, just don’t make it a habit or you may be quitting your training plan all together. Don’t be afraid to find other activities that require motion on your rest days.

• Nutrition. Running burns calories and so does rebuilding the muscles it takes to run. Don’t forget to give your body the nutrients it needs to perform and stay strong. Running is often seen as a weight management tool, but even if losing weight is the goal, keep feeding your body.

Find more on my Running Tips and Motivation page