Beginner's Guide to Starting a Running Routine

For the first time runner, easing into a running routine can be a difficult process. Building motivation, finding a pattern that suits your lifestyle, and actually getting up and making yourself run can all be factors that make or break each runner. However, making running a routine part of life can be done, even for the laziest of couch warmers. The following tips will help to provide insight in order to get moving.

1.Decide if you'd like to run inside or outside. Outdoorsy folks may prefer scenic locations to inspire them, whereas homebodies may prefer an indoor treadmill. Either way, selecting a preference will help decide which choice will suit your lifestyle best.

2.Get the right gear. Toss out your old gym shoes and get fitted by a local running or sports store. The employees can diagnose issues with insteps, soles, knees, and so forth. You'll want to pick up sweat-resistant clothing as well. And, if you're an avid music lover, you can also pick up accessories to bring along your favorite music as well.

3.Choose a goal. What is your motivation for running? To slim down? For the love of the sport? To acquire a new hobby? Decide what you're running for in order to set a schedule. Want to train for a longer distance run? There are plenty of valuable training guides available (Hal Higdon's training plan, found at www.halhigdon.com, is especially excellent).

4. Set the pace. Now that you've got your goal selected, it's time to schedule your runs. By scheduling your time, you're making a commitment to yourself to reach your fitness goals. Print out a schedule, write it on your calendar, or even text it to yourself - it doesn't matter how you record the information, as long as you plan it out ahead of time.

5.Get moving! Put on your newly acquired shoes and go! However, don't start off too quickly. Stick to the schedule that you have previously committed to, and don't push yourself too much in the first few weeks. Like any sport or physical activity, make sure to converse with your doctor about your new activity. Be cautious of any injury that you feel as well; you can always drop the pace a bit.

Whether you are running for general health, to shed pounds, or for personal enjoyment, committing to a new fitness goal will be beneficial overall. With these tips, you have the start of a successful new path to lifetime fitness.