We’ve all been there. We want to work on ourselves, so we take up a new hobby only to discover it’s easier said than done. I remember my first time running; it was a less than favorable experience, and I wish someone would’ve passed along any wisdom they had before my first run.
After thirty minutes of running at a pace slower than I’d like to admit, I was physically exhausted and mentally defeated. Running doesn’t have to be this bad, does it? Not at all!
After learning some hard lessons myself, I can proudly pass on these five unforgettable tips for first-time runners so that you can have a great first run without the agony.
Choose the Right Gear
There are plenty of benefits of cotton spandex in athletic clothing responsible for a change in my running wardrobe. The material is breathable and moisture-wicking, so you don’t have to worry about heavy shirts weighing you down mid-run.
You also want to remember to sport the proper running shoes to avoid discomfort and injuries. I don’t know how many are guilty of running in flats, but I know I am!
Don’t Start Your Run Too Fast
Given that it’s your first run, your body needs time to adapt to the new stresses of the activity. This is a message to those first-time runners who begin with a full-on sprint: good things come to those who wait! You’ll thank yourself in the end for keeping a steady pace.
Don’t Get Caught Up on Pace or Form
Another mistake I made was worrying about my pace and form when those are the last things that should have preoccupied my mind. Speed and form should never be a concern during your first run. My form and pace improved the more I ran, and yours will improve as well! While these aspects can help you make the most of your run, just getting moving is priority number one.
Don’t Neglect Your Breaks
Breaks during your first run are your best friend! We all dream of a perfect three-mile run without stopping to walk, tie our shoes, or recover from those pesky side cramps that happen out of the blue.
If I felt a cramp coming or felt more winded than usual, breaks were my saving grace and made a significant difference in how I felt afterward.
Don’t Forget Your Warm-Ups and Cool-Downs
Now, as a first-timer in the running world, at one point, I would always start my runs by doing just that—running. As much as you’d like to get going, it’s always best to warm up your body first!
I learned that starting the activity with a walk and then building it up to a jog or run was an effective way to get the blood pumping and mitigate injuries.
Whether this is your first physical activity or you’re a seasoned athlete wanting to spice up your workout routine, these unforgettable tips for first-time runners can help you crush your run!
