5 RUNNING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
Taking your first few strides into the running world? We've got you! Here are our 5 top tips to get started.
COMFY RUNNING TRAINERS ARE CRUCIAL
Have a local running shop? Get down there and visit the experts to get fitted for the best running trainers for you, they may be a little expensive but trust us, they're worth the investment, saving you from many injuries that may occur without them. Many local running shops analyse your running pattern on the treadmill before picking the best pair for your running style!
A comfortable, high-support activewear set is also important when completing those runs, constantly pulling your leggings back into place after each and every stride is the last thing we want on those long-distance runs. We recommend our high-compression 4-way stretch Evolve seamless leggings, perfect for running.
DRINK YO WATER
Running, especially in warm climates, can speed up the process of dehydration. Dehydration is a condition that is caused by a large amount of fluids lost and not replaced, affecting muscle performance. That's the last thing you need whilst running. To avoid dehydration, be sure to drink plenty of water prior to your run, during your run, and after you finish.
The two early signs of dehydration are being thirsty and a darker shade of urine, others include dizziness, headache, dry mouth, lips and eyes. Even being slightly dehydrated can drastically affect your running performance.
DON'T START FAST
When setting off on your running journey begin to run at a pace you feel comfortable at, this can be built upon as you up your mileage. The same goes for distance, if you can run one mile, half a mile, or a few hundred meters, that's great. It's a starting point and a little more distance can be added on each run, this allows your body to adapt to the training volume rather than setting out to run a crazy distance which will cause injury. Baby steps are better than big steps.
DON'T RUN TOO OFTEN
When many runners set off, they believe they must run every day to see improvements, one day off and they will lose all progress... Wrong. This couldn't be further from the truth. Experts suggest running 3 to 4 times per week at varying distances. Running every day will increase the likelihood of injury and prevents the body from having a period to rest and recover from the previous runs. Rest and recovery allow the muscles to become stronger allowing you to run that little further in your next run.
RUN YOUR OWN RACE
Many runners become demoralized when they see other runners running faster or for longer than them, even though they have been running for over 5 years. Yes, we know we've all done it! Remember to become good at anything it takes time, practice and consistency, but also remember there are other runners slower than you and people that don't run at all. Running is an amazing sport as it is truly you vs you.
We hope some of these tips help and hope to see you on the track. If you have any further questions feel free to add a comment below!