As the weather warms up and the days get longer, you may want to add outdoor activity to your workout routine. What better way to do that than by lacing up your running shoes and getting in a run?
If you’ve never really gotten into running or if you’ve never given it a try, it can be intimidating to get started. However, it’s worth giving it a go. You don’t need much equipment, you can get a run in any time convenient for you, and, most importantly, there are tons of health benefits.
One of the key health benefits of running is improved cardio health. One of the best cardio exercises you can do is running for at least 10 minutes a day, which can significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Running has also been proven to improve your quality of sleep, which is essential to your overall health. Plus, the famed “runner’s high,” the release of endorphins following a particularly great run, is real – running can boost your energy, mood, and overall mental health.
CHECK OUT THESE FIVE TIPS AND TRICKS TO BREAK INTO THE RUNNING SCENE THIS SPRING.
1) START WITH WALKING:
If you aren’t already active or haven’t run a mile in years, lower the barrier to entry and start with walking. For about two to three weeks, walk for 30 to 45 minutes a day, focusing on keeping a brisk pace and elevating your heart rate. Ideally, these walks would slowly morph into walk-runs.
2) DOWNLOAD AN APP:
Many apps help you track your runs, but there are also apps with excellent training programs for new runners. Couch to 5K is one of the best ones out there, and as its name suggests, it’s designed to get new runners across the finish line.
3) FIND A COMMUNITY:
It’s much easier to form a habit if you have friends alongside you! Memphis has a thriving running community ready to welcome runners of all experience levels with open arms. We recommend checking out Trail Trippers or Breakaway Running.
4) INVEST IN RUNNING SHOES:
We’re not suggesting you spend $200 on a pair of running shoes before you’re even sure you like running, but it’s important to have a decent pair of well-fitting shoes designed for running before you hit the road. Fleet Feet, Breakaway Running, and Grivet Outdoors have experts that can get you fitted for the right pair of shoes. This will help prevent injury as you’re starting.
5) DON’T SKIP RECOVERY:
Allowing your body to rest and recover is crucial, especially as a new runner! As you’re getting started, don’t try to run every day, and make sure you’re taking the time to stretch properly before and after every run.
By Lucy Modzelewski
