The “Newbie” Runner

            Life is full of challenges and one I find the hardest is being the “newbie”.  Whenever you jump into the unknown, initially there is always a big uphill learning curve.  For those of us who are afraid to fail, this is very difficult.  Regardless of who you are, we all have a dynamic list of first time experiences.

            Your first, second, or third career.

            New to the neighborhood, new to the office, new to the yoga class, new baby….

First 10K, first time buying running shoes….

At some point in life we all encounter feeling like the “newbie”.

So you might ask, “What does this have to do with an active life style – running”?

Well, it is finding the motivation and confidence to push ourselves out of our comfort zone to try something new.

With running, we all have to start somewhere and we have to put our time in as the “newbie”.  The following are a few tips that will help you reach your potential as you begin running.

-Shoes

Buy good shoes.  Running shoes are not cheap so this is an investment.  You don’t have to go far as Sheridan offers great resources as well as knowledgable experts.

Buy your shoes 1/2 size larger than your street shoe size.  Your feet swell while running and you will need extra room.  This will help reduce injuries as well as the dreaded running blisters.

Buy the appropriate shoes for the running surface.  Road shoes are meant to be used on hard surfaces.  Trail shoes help you navigate the rocks, tree roots and bends in the dirt trail.

Use your running shoes only for running.

-Start Slowly

This tip is not about speed but has everything to do with distance.  Don’t expect to walk out the door and run 6 miles.  Be conservative and start out with a walk/run routine until you gradually increase your mileage.  Why?  Most running injuries are caused from doing too much too soon.

Try researching and following a Couch to 5K training plan.

-How often should I run?

Don’t run everyday.  Rest is equally as important as your workouts.  The rest phase allows your body to recover allowing your body to work more efficiently on the next run.

Two to three days in the beginning is sufficient and if you feel you need more, try non-impact activities when you are not running.  Stick to your new running routine for two to three weeks before you progress.

-Fluids

Drink, Drink, Drink.  Make sure you are getting enough water before, during and after your run.  Hydration has a great impact on how you feel during your run.  If you don’t feel “good”, reflect on how much water you consumed the day before.

-Run your own race

By this I mean don’t compare yourself to other runners.  Set your own personal goals and remember it takes time and practice.  Very few of us actually posses raw running talent, so try not to feel intimidated around other runners.  We all know it takes hard work and dedication to see results…Those with more experience were “newbies” at one time.

Have fun with this new challenge!  Running is as simple as putting one foot in front of the other over and over again.