I began my running journey in June 2024 and a big reason why I kept putting it off was I didn’t feel ready . Even now, 7 weeks since I began I’m constantly learning about running , my body, and so many other things I couldn’t even begin to tell you’d I’d have learnt from running.
If your like me your still hesitant or anxious to hit the open road and get running then this post is for you, by the end of it I hope it gives your the courage to get out there because it’s honestly the best feeling when you complete a run and you’ll be thinking why didn’t you start sooner
Let’s get into it, shall we …
Running from a app
Once of my biggest worries was I had no idea where to start and I didn’t want to injure myself by doing too much too soon . There is so many apps out there to help people like myself who has little experience with running.
I’m using an app called Just Run it’s a really good app with clear queues and is easy to follow and understand.
Highly recommend this app.
Download Just Run Zero 5K ( and 10K ) Here
Music
This is as important as using an app. Music has always helped me and with my running I’d have been lost without it. Those first few weeks aren’t just hard physically but also mentally.
I found it helped hugely when I first started as i was quite breathless in the beginning and In order to slow my breathing I would sing to my music which helped hugely to steady my breathing and help with the pain I got in my chest from breathing so quickly
Now, 7 weeks on, I talk with my twin sister Mariah whilst running, and we love to have a sing-along, too.
Preparation is key
I like to go for my runs in the evenings . Even before I began running I would drink 2 litres of water a day and that’s even more important now . Before going for my run I like to have a cup of tea with sugar and either a banana or an flapjack for example as it helps give me that little push of energy if I need it. But everything is different for everyone so I think a lot of it is trial and error on what you like and what works for you.
I then do my pre running warm up and head out
Post running care
Once I’ve returned from my run and I’ve done my cool down stretches I have a small glass of chocolate milk . This helps refuel my body with sugars that I’ve just burnt on my run. On my running days I normally have a small dinner as I honestly don’t feel hungry but it’s important to give your body something even if its just small.
Mindset
I think this is the most important of all my tips is your MINDSET.
Your mind can be a friend or a foe In my opinion, when I first started running I felt quite anxious and sometimes I couldn’t pinpoint a reason . Then my mind and body began to relax and it felt easier. In the beginning I strongly believe your mind will get you through more than your body will, there were moments and I’m sure there will be in the future that are hard but in those difficult moments i had to tell my brain I could do this. Sometimes it is a battle mentally but you are strong enough to power on through . You’ve got this
Trainers
When my twin sister an myself were talking about starting to run we said the trainers we choose are so important .
We knew we wanted a pair of Asics and we eventually decided on a pair of Asics Gel-contend 8 trainers and they are great and so comfortable and I think they are a really good trainer for your first pair of trainers as they won’t break the bank .
Shop my trainers here
Every run I go on I’m constantly learning , adding to my every growing love for running. There are hard moments for sure, but they are so worth the good moments.
I hope this post has helped build up the courage to start your running journey