A beginners guide to running

Preparation 

Make sure you have supportive footwear from the start. Running shoes should have plenty of tread with suitable cushioning and support. Your running shoes should not be falling apart! A shoe’s structure weakens over time; that’s why running experts recommend replacing your shoes at the first signs of wear and tear. Wearing supportive footwear can help to avoid any trips or falls, or even a nasty bill from the physio! 

What should I wear? Ideally, your clothing should be light in colour, the fabric should be thin, breathable and comfortable, enabling freedom of movement to avoid any rubbing on your skin. Chafing is not nice and could prevent you from running regularly. 

Before you start, plan when and where you are going to run. Take the time to decide if you will run in the morning, afternoon or in the evening. Will you run on a hard surface like a pathway or a soft surface like a sporting field? Maybe a bit of both?  

The Heart Foundation suggests you avoid running in the hottest part of the day, this will reduce the possibility of dehydration and help to ensure you are sun safe.  

Running on softer surfaces is gentler on your body, especially when you are starting out. Choosing where you go for your run should be a seamless part of your routine, over-thinking can create a barrier to getting active. Remember to get the balance right for YOU; this will help to create a long-lasting routine which you are more likely to stick to.  

If you are recovering from injury or are worried about an existing condition, always check with your doctor before you start. 

Starting out  

If you haven’t done much running before, start out by alternating between brisk walking and running to build up your ability and stamina. When you feel ready, increase the time you run for. Try this: in week 1, start with a brisk walk, then run for 1 minute, then walk briskly and repeat; in week 2, start with a brisk walk, then run for 1.5 minutes, then walk briskly and repeat, etc. 

Set your mind on going the distance, rather than on how fast you are going.Using a fitness App, such as Strava, MapMyFitness or Fitbit, which you can link to your MyMarathon fundraising page, to track your kilometres, can be an excellent source of motivation.  If you are running in the same location, being able to go further in a similar time is a great goal. 

As you progress, extend the time your run session goes for. In week 1, you might run for 15-20 minutes each time; in week 2, aim for 20-25 minutes; in week 3 – build up to 25-30 minutes, etc. A run-walk session every second day is a good way to start out. Remember to be consistent and persistent: before long, you will build up a great routine. 

Be kind to yourself and don’t stress about your performance. As a guide, you should be able to talk, but not sing, as you run. Being more physically active will deliver many physical and mental benefits. If you have any concerns or start experiencing pain of any kind, see your regular doctor. If you are experiencing warning signs of a heart attack call 000. 

Recovery 

At the end of your running session, cool down by walking and then stretching for a few minutes. This can help to prevent injuries. Areas to stretch include your hamstrings, calves, quads, and glutes. Be sure to rehydrate; water is the best option. 

Your body needs a break, so plan rest days: having at least one rest day between runs will reduce your chance of injury and make you a stronger runner. Rest days enable your joints to recover and your muscles to repair and strengthen. 

Strength 

To help build your running ability, we recommend adding strength exercises into your routine; get going by doing strength exercises 2-3 times a week. Bodyweight exercises can be a great way to get you started: try squats, lunges, calf raises and glute bridges. These exercises can be completed 8-12 times each, and you can repeat them, as a way to progress. 

Keep going

These tips can help to keep you motivated:  

• Set a goal and imagine how you’ll feel when you reach it. This may include a short-term goal (in the next few weeks) and a long-term goal (within the next few months). 
• Tell family and friends about your running goals: this gives you a sense of accountability and you may even pick up a running buddy!  
• Mix it up! Remember that you can do MyMarathon at any pace, in any place; mix up the speed, the intensity and the scenery. Doing this can help keep you motivated. 
• Have fun! Exercise shouldn’t be a chore. Discover those perfect opportunities in your day and kick-start a routine you can stick to; your heart will thank you! 
• Find a running buddy. Having someone to run with can add to the fun and motivation