by Kerry Taylor
Running, argh, running! Ask anyone and they will tell you that I'm not a fan. But as of late, it has been one of my favorite things to do. I can't believe I just said that. I'm enjoying this new activity for a few reasons. It's a challenge for me every time I run. I'm in my own world with my music and my thoughts. My asthma has not bothered me since I been running consistently. The plan is to keep this up for a long time.
I know for others out there that have been trying or want to try to start running but just can't do it because they dread it. One of my clients will always say "we have cars now, why run when you can drive?" LOL. So here are a few tips to help you to start or continue with your running, from my point of view.
Start slow
When we start a run off sometimes we have the habit of starting off at too fast of a pace. I know I do or used to and I would lose steam quickly. Now, I start off slower and pick up my pace as I get adjusted to everything. Makes a world of difference.
Do intervals
Walk, run or sprint, rest and go again! Most think of running as a constant, non-stop action. Like running for miles on top of miles. It doesn't have to be that way, you can start with intervals based on distance or time. This will help you get into great running shape and ultimately have you able to run longer distances. Another added bonus is that you will work harder when you run because you get a rest after every run you do.
Find a pal
I personally like to run alone. Throw my headphones on and just go. I've been told that by many more experienced runners that having someone running with you makes it easier. Mainly because you can chat the whole way or challenge each other. Before you know it, the run will be over! Do what works best for you and what you're trying to get accomplished.
Don't plan
I know this goes against everything we may preach to you, but I found it easier to not fully plan my runs. Okay, before you get upset with me, hear me out. I usually say to myself, I'm going to run to a certain landmark, when I get to that landmark and if I feel good, I just keep going. I personally don't like to know how far it is I'm running until afterwards. I do this because, as I run, I will just be counting down how much farther I have to go, just kills my drive. But if you do have a race in mind and that's what you're training for then you must put some sort of plan in place for your runs so you can build up the mileage and get to the race safely and be ready to go.
Run different every time
To constantly keep it interesting and fun for me, I don't run the same course every time. Every time I'm out, something along the way is different. Something as simple as changing the side of the street I run on or running a course in the opposite direction helps me to keep going.
Break it up
This is similar to intervals because you won't be running the whole time. What I mean by this is run for a certain distance or time and then stop and do an activity. Do something like jumping jacks, push ups, or a core exercise for a designated amount of repetitions or time. Once you complete it, then get up and go again. Continue in this fashion until you complete your run. If you choose to run on a bike path or running path, some of them may have activities already laid out for you.
These are just a few things that have worked for me to help keep me going. If you're challenged by running or dread it, try to apply some of these or one of these the next time you head out for a run. If I can do it, believe me YOU can do it. Hope to see you out there some time!
Until next time, continue to live a life 1 degree above the rest.