#jogging tips

Tips for the Newbie Runner

1. Just do it.  Don’t wait until tomorrow or next week, or next month.  Do it today.  Run to the mailbox to get your mail, run to the end of the block, run with your dog until he goes to the bathroom and then run home.  Start today and never look back.

2. Don’t start out too fast.  This is a common mistake that new runners make.  You start out too fast, then feel exhausted, out of breath, and defeated.  We don’t want that, so start slow.  No, I mean really slow.  Slower than you think you need to.  If, after a while, you feel like you can pick up the pace, then great, go for it.  But, for now, pace yourself, you are in it for the long haul.

3. Get fitted for some good running shoes.  Find a running store and get fitted.  A good pair of running shoes will cost from $85-$110 but they are so worth it.  Take the time to get the right pair.  It will save you time, blisters, and injuries in the long run.  Here is a great resource for finding the right shoe.  Personally I wear Brooks and find that they are a great option.

4. Try not to get frustrated.  Even the most seasoned runners have a bad run.  If one day you have a terrible run, don’t give up, it happens to the best of us.  The next one will be better, I promise.

5. If you are running on the road, run against traffic, that way you see the cars and can get out of the way if they don’t see you.

6. @marathonmom10 says “Don’t compare yourself to others.”  So what if tiny shorts lady can run a 7 minute pace.  You run at your pace and that’s that.  If you want to do speedwork when you have this running thing down, then by all means do it.  But do not compare yourself to others.  Running is individual.  Run for yourself, not for anyone else.

7. Kathy says “Listen to your body!! Don’t push yourself….stop if you need to stop, slow down if you need to slow down, and eventually it will all come together and you too will feel that “Runner’s High”. 

8. Christy says “find what motivates you whether it is getting faster or losing weight or going to new distances, set a goal and work towards it in small increments.”

Remember, running is hard, if it was easy, everyone would be doing it.  Like I have said before, I used to hate running.  I would always go out too fast and feel terrible (as referenced in #2).  As you age, you tend to learn patience, and when I needed to lose weight after my second child, I came to running and asked for a second chance.  Running agreed, and we are now best friendsJ Running has not only helped me lose 30 pounds and keep it off for over 9 years, it has also given me peace, sanity, and confidence, among many other things.  So, to those who say, “but I hate running”, I say “you can grow to love it”.  As Ed would say “don’t worry it will become fun!” and I agree.  It will be hard in the beginning, but I promise it will change your life.

It is worth it, for your health, sanity, and your booty.  Now, get off that couch, lace up your new shoes, and hit the road.  You won’t be sorry!

Sometimes a jog can clear your mind and set you on the right path for the rest of the day. Whether your an ex cross country athlete or take to the pavement for additional cardio, you don't want an injury from a jog to lay you out from your regular activities. Get the most our of your jog. 

Form: As with workout, form is king, jogging is no exception. Keep your hands tension free, that goes for your shoulders too. Keeping the shoulders open, lengthening and engaging the core will allow for more efficient blood flow to your body. 

Impact: Run lightly. If you hear your feet slamming into the ground you may be damaging your joints. Lighten up by trying to land in the middle of your foot, rather than your toe or heel to create the perfect sized stride for you. 

Breath: Breathe deeply, short shallow breaths restricts the amount of oxygen your body can take in. Inhibiting your oxygen intake can let fatigue set in quicker, shortening your exercise time and the enjoyment of the run. Deep rhythmic breaths will serve you best.