Running has been a popular form of exercise for many years, and with good reason. Running and jogging is a very easy activity to get into and it can yield immense health benefits when practiced regularly. It’s also very accessible. Unlike some other exercises and sports, all you need to run are a good pair of shoes and an open trail. Though fairly straightforward and attainable, taking up running as a hobby can be a bit daunting. These running tips for beginners will help you get past that initial hump so you can continue running toward your goals.
Start small
As with any exercise, the best running tip for beginners is to start small. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you likely won’t be ready to run a full marathon after just a few weeks jogging. Start small and work your way up to larger goals, whether that’s a further running distance or better endurance. Begin by running shorter intervals, with walking breaks interspersed throughout. This will help you slowly build your endurance—you’ll soon be able to run longer and more continuously. Additionally, try not to go all out with sprints right off the bat. Pushing yourself too hard and running too fast or too long can increase your risk of overexertion or injury. It can also cause you to experience burnout quicker and you may be more likely to call it quits on running altogether.
Choose the right surface
As we’ve stated, running is popular because it’s so versatile and can be practiced almost anywhere. Narrowing down the running location and surface that best suits your goals and abilities, therefore, is entirely up to you. When choosing the best terrain for your training, consider your body’s individual limitations as well as the type of running you intend to practice. If you hope to improve your running speed you may consider running on pavement, as there is less risk of twisting your ankle on uneven ground, while running on a grassier terrain can help reduce some of the impact felt by knees and ankles. Running on a treadmill is also a popular option, as it brings together the best of both worlds and offers a smooth running surface with ample cushioning to reduce impact. Among other benefits of running on a treadmill, it also enables you to continue your training throughout the entire year, regardless of outdoor temperature or weather.
Cross-train
Though running and sprinting are a great way to achieve a full-body workout, it’s also important to intersperse your training with other exercises occasionally. Taking a break from your daily jogs and engaging in a bit of weight training or yoga will not only give your legs a break, but it will also provide your mind a temporary reprieve from a monotonous exercise schedule. Spending some time exercising your arms, abs, and back muscles will help you achieve a more well-rounded fitness routine that’s both fun and effective. Toning your body’s other muscle groups can also help you maintain better endurance and form when running.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
