We have all heard how easy it is to get out there and run. Just get dressed, lace up your shoes, and you are ready to go! Even though it really is that simple to get out there and be active, there are some easy steps to help you become a better run!
Stretch
It seems too trivial and easy, but this is the one step that most runners (even the more experienced) seem to skip. Start your runs with a small dynamic stretching warm up and then end your workouts with about 15 minutes of longer and deeper stretching.
Here is a simple and easy pre-run dynamic stretching routine:
Mix up your workouts.
It is easy to go out there every day and run the same course, the same pace, and the same distance. The only problem with this is after a few weeks you are going to get bored and it will be harder for you to motivate yourself. You can mix up your workouts by changing up where you run, your pace, adding speed workouts in, and changing up the distance.
Here are some easy speed workouts I enjoy doing:
Run with a friend.
The monotony of running often comes from putting in most of the miles alone. Running solo can be stress relieving and often very therapeutic, sometimes it helps to find a running buddy to hold you accountable. It is much harder to back out if you know someone is waiting on you.
Set goals for yourself.
I have always been a big supporter of setting fitness goals for yourself. They help to keep you motivated and give you something to work for each and every day.
Short-Term Goals:
- Speed up my mile time
- Run 1 extra mile per week
- Run a local 5k
- Run 5-6 days per week
Long-Term Goals:
- Run a marathon (of course this is one of my favorites).
- Train and complete a triathlon
- Run 10 miles without stopping
Goals are a great way to push yourself and help you gain amazing confidence along the way.
Get the right shoes.
As long as you have a pair of running shoes you can run, but did you know that all running shoes are not made the same? Every runner out there is different in how they land and how much support they need in a running shoe.
Go to a local running store and let them watch you run. They will be able to help you find the perfect shoe that will make running much easier for you! Don’t be afraid to ask for help that is what they are there for!
There are many great websites out there that will help you find a local running store near you such as:
Get out there, get running, and find the confidence that running brings!
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