Running is one of the best activities you can do to boost your level of fitness. It helps you get in shape quickly and it can help develop within you all sorts of physical and mental energy. Running should become a way of life if you are physically able to do it.
The most important aspect of running is knowing where to begin. Developing good running habits can help you turn it into a daily activity that enriches your health and your life.
If you are new to the running world, these tips can serve as a compass for getting from Point A to Point B:
Buy good sneakers
Shoes make all the difference when you’re running. A shoe that properly cushions and supports your feet while you run is a lifesaver. It will help you avoid potential feet and ankle injuries that could result in impaired mobility for a time and major medical bills.
Begin with short distances
No one can complete a marathon on their first day of running. It takes training over a period of weeks and months to condition your body to endure longer distances. Start with shorter distances on your first few runs. It can be anywhere from a few hundred yards to a half a mile. Build gradually from there as your muscles and organs get stronger and acclimated to running. It’s also a great idea to have a well-thought-out plan. (Here’s one couch-to-5K example from coolrunning.com.)
Stay hydrated
Water is a runner’s best friend. Running can dehydrate you and cause muscle cramps, fainting and other serious issues. Runners should drink plenty of water before they run, while they run and after they run to avoid putting their health at risk.
Warm up and cool down
It is never a good idea to start out in a full-on sprint as soon as you lace up. Stretch your muscles and start into a warm-up walk or jog before your actual run. Then you should finish with a cool down jog or walk followed by more stretching. This will make it easier to avoid injuries and also help reduce soreness and stiffness in your muscles and joints.
Make running a habit
Running does you the most good when it becomes a regular part of your week. Make time to run a few days each week and schedule off-days to let your body recover. Once running becomes part of your regular routine, you will see the greatest benefits from it.