Very few people who have to run or jog actually like it when they first begin. They find that their legs burn, their muscles hurt and their lungs are gasping for air. These individuals might go on just one run before they decide that they absolutely hate it. One of the common problems with those who try and immediately dismiss running is that they are starting the wrong way. They simply decide one day that they want to run, head out onto the street and start pounding the concrete. They have set their goals too high and they try to run too far on that first day. The newbie runners get too far away from the house and have to walk home, wheezing the entire way. You do not have to be one of these failed runners!
Preparing to Run
Before anyone can head out and run a marathon, he or she needs to start small. Even before beginning to run, it is important that you do a few things first. Namely, one needs to have some type of exercise program in their life already. It doesn't have to be much at first. Some cardio a few times a week in the gym to get the blood flowing and to get the lungs working, along with some weight training to strengthen the muscles have acclimate them to hard work.
One also needs to make sure to wear proper running shoes. The ones that you take to the gym might not be the best option for runners. Instead, head to the store and find some new, comfortable running shoes. Some nice, new workout clothes specifically for your runs can help motivate a person too. Pick up a pedometer as well, so you can track how far you are traveling on your runs.
Starting Small is Important
Do not head out your door and try to run five miles, even if you have been doing cardio and weight training. For most people, this is just going to be frustrating and even painful. You need to start smaller. In fact, you need to start much smaller for a couple of reasons.
The first reason is your body. You need to make sure that your body is going to be able to handle the additional stress of running, and you need to prepare your body with shorter runs. The second reason is psychological. When you have a goal of five miles, it is a huge number to a psyche that has never run before. If you are unable to make that run without stopping and losing your breath, your subconscious will tell you that running isn't for you.
Instead, start with half a mile and take your time while you are running. Feel the ground beneath your feet, the air in your lungs and the wind in your face. Learn to love that feeling. When you are able to make the run without stopping, you are going to feel much better about yourself than if you attempted a five-mile run. Every couple of days, add a bit more to your run until you reach that five-mile point. Soon, you will be running marathons!
