So you say you're cool with your followers asking questions about working out? well i was wondering if i am going to begin running/jogging in my weekly routine what should I do to prepare for myself before like eat protein or fruit or strive for how long? Keep in mind that I strongly dislike running but I want to get my cardiovascular system strong; what should I strive for?
Of course!
I'm going to tell you a bit about my experience with running, and then maybe offer some tips, is that alright? If you have any other questions that I didn't quite cover, let me know! :)
(you can skip the story if you want. )
I started running in 9th grade when I decided to join Cross Country. I honestly don't know WHY I did that, because I had always hated running. I went from never running to running 5 days a week. As soon as the season was over, I hardly ran again except for maybe twice on the treadmill during the winter and 5 or so times in the summer because I still hated it. Last year, 10th grade, did Cross Country again, still hated, repeated the exact same thing, EXCEPT...
(I recommend reading this)
one night during the beginning of this summer, I saw some fitblr stuff on my dash and I got pumped and I thought, oh, I'm going to go try running. Went out for about half an hour, was good the first 15 or so minutes then I had to walk a bit off and on during the way back. I really don't know why I decided to go out, I was just feeling incredibly motivated. Either the next night or a few nights later, I don't remember, I went again. And again. And again. And before I knew it, I was running 4 + or so times a week, for around 30 minutes each time.
Now, here I am, working out 6-7 times a week, running 3-4 of those days.
(read this!)
Tips:
It does take a bit of getting used to. I really used to HATE running soooooo much, but I eventually just got used to it, and I like feeling my body become stronger and I LOVE having strong legs and thighs (it's weird, I REALLY love thighs <3). It's not going to happen over night.
Maybe start off with only running once or twice a week, just so that you get used to it. I would also highly recommend bringing an iPod if you can or listening to music. When I was on CC, I wasn't allowed to listen to music, but now when I go running on my own or am on the treadmill, it makes me go so much faster and work a heck of a lot harder.
Believe it or not, it also makes me smile when I'm running. Like if a REALLY amazing song comes on, no matter where I am in my workout, I feel a rush of energy and I am sooo happy. So yeah, I highly recommend music if you can.
Stretch. Streeeeeeeeeeeeeeetch. A lot. Make sure to do a bit or a warm up first though. Like 50 or so jumping jacks, start running for a few minutes, whatever you like, just make sure to stretch before and after.
At the beginning maybe strive for 30 minutes total? That can include walking. Just go out there, and whether you run, jog, or walk it, just keep on going, don't completely stop and give up. It takes time to build up.
When I run on the treadmill, I set a time and a distance. Normally, it's between 15-20 mins for 1.75-2.5 miles. So set up a time and distance that way you have a goal. Or maybe just do one. Say I want to be able to go one mile, and then I can take a break, or whatever makes you happy.
(wow this is really long, I am so sorry. >.<)
Food wise ~
For me personally, I just strive to eat healthy in general so that I am overall pretty healthy and have the power I need to run.
My dad likes to have an apple with peanut butter after he runs. That's really healthy and it does get you some protein after you run.
Remember though, you should have a healthy snack almost immediately after your workout or else you will loose a big chunk of it. (loose as in your body won't rebuild the muscle that your tore to make more stronger muscle, etc.) Also, it's good to eat a meal within 45 mins to an hour after your workout.
Some people say that carbs are bad, bad, bad, don't eat carbs EVER, they are Satan's choice of food along with chocolate, don't eat them whatever you do.
I'm not like that. I love carbs (healthy ones!!!). Now it does also depend on your health conditions. For example, my grandpa has diabetes so he does have to watch all of the carbs that he eats. If you do eat carbs though, make sure to go for the whole wheat ones. Those help give you power! I LOVE having whole wheat pasta, especially before I have a race.
I remember when I was in CC (this year I didn't do it; I tried golf! <3) we would sometimes have pasta parties before a meet, and ... those were awesome. Eat pasta the night before. The carbs are energy for your body for when you run.
And now, I really should finish this. (I am terribly sorry for writing so much...) Did this help at all? Does this answer your questions enough?
Thank you! <3
