Now is the perfect time of year to start a running or jogging routine. Getting up early ensures you can get your miles in before the heat of the day, and you’ll benefit from the fresh air and sunshine before it gets overwhelming. While it might seem like you can just head out and start, here are some things to keep in mind as you start running or jogging.
Get Running Shoes That Fit
Want to run better? Get shoes that fit. You’ll need well-fitting shoes to avoid injury and improve your running. These shoes do not need to cost a fortune, but they should have the right arch height and amount of cushioning for your feet. Many new runners would benefit from the services at a running shoe store. They can ensure you have the best fit and some of them will even give you tips to improve your posture.
Watch For Chafing
It seems like no matter what you do, you are going to chafe somewhere. Plan for it now, because if you don’t, you’ll never want to run again. While some fabrics can help reduce chafing, some runners also use other means to help their thighs glide as they run or jog. You can use an anti chafe glide, cornstarch, and even Vaseline and other products designed to reduce the rashes you can get from running.
Create Goals
Why do you want to run in the first place? Maybe your goal is about losing weight. Perhaps you have a cause you want to run for and you’re starting to train for it. Maybe you want an activity you can do anywhere. No matter what your goals are, it’s important to write them down and then start working toward them. Start with something reachable. Whether it be a time goal or a miles goal, make sure you track how long and how far you go. These stats will help you if you plan to improve your times or your distance in the future.
Use Proper Form
Too many people don’t realize that there is a form for running. If you slouch your shoulders, it’s going to be harder to take deep breaths as you run and you can end up hurting your back and neck. Your hands should be relaxed and held at your waist. You should make sure that your back is not too stiff, but not hunched over either. Look ahead instead of up or down at your feet. This posture helps to keep your back in alignment as well. Also, try not to bounce too much as you run. You want smooth movements as your feet hit the ground.
Don’t Overdo It
It’s easy to want to go all-in when you first get started running. Unfortunately, overdoing it can cause you major issues that could make you want to quit. When you overdo it, you are more likely to be injured, strain a muscle, or pull something that shouldn’t be pulled. Overdoing it can put too much pressure on your knees as well. Starting more moderately ensures that you can work up to more miles and at a quicker pace as you go. You won’t be an Olympic athlete the day you start, but you can work up to running long and short distances. Incorporating a good stretching routine like Yoga can also keep you from overdoing it.
Bring Water
Running means you’re going to sweat, and when you sweat you are going to lose fluids. Ensuring that you run while hydrated is extremely important. You need enough fluids with you to keep you from passing out or getting heat exhaustion. You’ll find that you run so much more efficiently when you focus on proper hydration. While shorter runs are unlikely to require you to use a hydration drink, you do need to ensure you have water when you head out.
Run With a Friend
For some reason, it’s easier to commit to fitness goals when you do them with a friend. It’s easy to let yourself down, but you don’t want to be the person to blow off a friend who is counting on you. Running with a friend is an excellent way to help you stay consistent and reach your running goals. When you’re just starting out, it can be exactly what you need to keep going.
