Have you ever wanted to get into running, but worried it would be too exhausting and time consuming?  I was in the same position, but during COVID-19 times I began to challenge myself and take up running. Before 2020, the longest I ever ran was 3km which I did very rarely, but I am now starting to average at around 5-6km per run. Granted, I am still no Usain Bolt, but I have made progress. Below are some of my top tips for any beginner wanting to get into the running game.

1. Set a Goal for Yourself

Goal setting is one of the key motivators to help you maintain a consistent running schedule. Research suggests that by setting goals for yourself it helps you stick to new routines and improve focus. Once you’ve committed to running, make yourself realistic goals that can help guide you and keep you on track. A good example of an achievable goal is setting yourself a distance you would like to achieve or try setting a frequency of how often you will run.

2. Plan and Manageable Schedule

Let’s be honest, how many of us have set out to do something but never do it because of scheduling? Setting a time to run a few times a week can be very difficult, but it is very crucial in order to be able to stick to it in the long term. The key to this is to pick a time that you are guaranteed to rarely be busy at. If you know you have free time on Saturday mornings make that your running time. Whilst you’re starting out, it’s easiest to stick to just one or two days a week, and then adjust to more days once you are used to it.

3. Download a Running Tracker App

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One of the most effective ways to manage your new running schedule is by harnessing the power fitness tracker apps or devices, which can help you visualise your running achievements, and help you progress with your goals. Some good app recommendations include Strava, Runkeeper and Pumatrac. If you’re in need of a running game though, Zombies, Run! is a fun tracking app where the more miles you run, the more you survive in the zombie apocalypse. 

4. Get New Clothes/Shoes to Inspire Yourself

Source: Lorna Jane

Sometimes, the best way to get started is with a bit of retail therapy. Buying yourself new running shoes and running attire can help build your confidence before you start. It’s very important to wear running appropriate clothing as it helps ensure you feel comfortable and can improve your workout. If you’re wanting to find some excellent new fitness clothes, Lorna Jane and Tahui Active  have very high quality activewear to last. And if you’re finding your first few runs to be a challenge, at least you look fabulous in your new getup.

5. Just Keep Going

When you are still in the early stages of your running goal, persistence is essential.  It can be very difficult to maintain the motivation to keep running, especially if you have found your first few runs exhausting. It is recommended for the first few runs to try and not focus on the speed and pace. Rather, focus on making the distance and then build up from there. If you’re able to make it past the first 5 runs, it can be almost guaranteed that every run after gets easier. On rest days, make sure you allow your body to recover rather than do high intensity activities. 

Got more effective running tips for a total newbie? Let us know down below!