I’m skipping ahead to next Tuesday’s topic: Tips for Beginner Runners It’s been awhile since I started running (like 2008). I’ve learned a lot since then. And although I am not a certified coach, I have mentored and run with many beginner running groups.
So here are my favorite tips:
- Join a group or a class.
It’s much easier than going at it alone. You will make friends and a coach/mentor will help avoid form and training mistakes.
a fun 10 week program
- If there is no class or group available to you, use the Couch25k app.
This app will guide through walk/run intervals and prepare you to complete a 5k.
The STEM group also used this app even though in a group
- Sign up for a 5k race.
This will motivate you to do your runs and give you a goal.
if possible, one with a medal!
- Buy good running shoes.
Go to a running store, if possible, try on a few shoes. Return the shoes if they are not comfortable (most stores will allow you to return your shoes.)
so many choices…
- Even a bad run is better then no run at all.
Runs that suck will happen. Forget and move on.
oh well
- Buy running clothes you look good in and that are comfortable.
I recommend breathable shirts and shorts/skirts with pockets.
- Running is not an excuse to triple your intake of doughnuts.
Yes, runners gain weight too. Try to eat a healthy snack (such as a banana) before you run and something with protein after (bagel, chocolate milk).
- Add other forms of exercise to your routine on days that you do not run.
This could be walking, biking, hiking, yoga, strength training,
or going to the gym!
- Don’t neglect and irritate your family and friends by spending all your time talking about running.
It’s only a small part of your life…though it may be one of the BEST parts.
Happy Running! What tips can you add to this list? Please share. 
Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida and Kim (Kooky Runner).
I’m also linking up here: 
with co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, Runs with Pugs, and Laura Norris Running.
My First 5K and More... 
Excellent tips, Darlene!
I had to smile at your last one – goodness, I had to learn the hard way that not everyone is interested in my running stories! I’m so glad I have a blog where I can blether about running to my heart’s content, haha!
I would only add that a new runner should avoid doing too much too fast. I’ve seen a few beginners fall into that trap and end up injured.
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That’s a real good one. Start small.
LOL. My blog is my outlet as well. My hubby does not run. I have to pretend to be interested in his tennis matches.
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Also, I’ve always liked the advice not just for running but life in general- you do you and I’ll do me. Everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for someone else.
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exactly
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Those are great tips! The shoes and comfortable clothing are HUGE ones for me. I HATED running at the beginning because my shoes sucked. Once I got fitted, it was a complete life changer for me!
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Yes Yes and I still am looking for the best clothes and shoes. Tastes and styles and needs change.
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I joined a Fleet Feet group when I was training for one of my very first half marathons and it was such a great decision. I learned so much and made a few friends too.
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Same here. It really helped me.
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Wait, you’re not supposed to talk about running to everyone all the time? Ha, just kidding. I’ve learned who wants to hear about it and who doesn’t. Great tips!
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I was obsessed at the beginning.
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Running with a group was and is key for me in staying motivated and pushing myself. Agreed that it is almost impossible to our run a poor diet
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Yup..totally agree on the group and happy that I do have those options still.
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Great tips! I think running in a group was so motivating for me as a beginner, and it definitely served me well! And going to a running store is so important!
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Same here. The group was so helpful.
I still go to a running store to try out new shoes.
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Loved all the tips. Another beginning app is N2R. None to Run was a bitter fit for me than C25K. I tried both and N2R was set up a bit different and made me more successful.
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Thanks for the info. I never heard of that one. Part of C25K I do not like. ie run straight for 30 minutes.
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If it’s your first race, don’t have a time goal, just a goal to enjoy the experience!
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Yes. Definitely. I don’t even think I knew what was fast or slow back then.
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YES to all of these 😉 The Couch-to-5K wasn’t on my radar, back in 2005, when I got serious about running. I just did my own thing (on the treadmill, believe it or not LOL), and worked my way up to the 5K distance. As they say, the rest is history…
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Same. I didn’t know about the app. I didn’t even have a smart phone yet. The group did help. Not sure I could have done as well on my own.
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All good tips! I would add that people should really commit to running for three months before deciding if they like it or not. Running can feel really uncomfortable at first and it can take a while before you start enjoying it.
Love the last tip- yes, sadly most of my friends are not runners! Even though it’s endlessly fascinating to me, I get that it bores them.
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Same. Most of my friends are not runners. They try to be interested but they don’t understand it.
I was one of those who loved running right away and signed up for a race.
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Great tips! I would only add to start out slow, and that walking is ok!
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good one!!! that’s a perfect tip for seasoned runners as well.
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have fun! That’s my biggest and always rule!
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Agree!!
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These are all great tips!
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These are all great tips! I have learned to only talk about running to my running friends (of course) and family members that ask me about it. But sometimes I do wonder if they really want to know. 🙂
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Ha ha. I know.
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I love that you recommend cute clothing! Way back when I started exercising (before running even) what I wore was very motivating for me. It still is (and why I love Skirt Sports).
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Exactly. Matching my running apparel is important. I always say that “At least I look good at a race.” lol
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