Better for a run

The great news is that you already know how to run! The hard part is getting the confidence and motivation to put on a pair of running shoes, open the door, and start to run. However, if you do, you will be rewarded with an activity that can change your life.

So where do you start?

Get yourself a plan. There are lots of beginner running plans and Apps available today. In the UK the NHS provides the Couch to 5K plan free of charge ( Get running with Couch to 5K – NHS (www.nhs.uk)) which is a great starting point. Many local running clubs also run these plans over a number of weeks with the added support of a run leader/coach and of course other runners. They will gradually build up the distance you run until you reach that magical goal of 5K. Many runners I know started on these plans, and are now running 10Ks, half-marathons, marathons, and even ultra-marathons!

Find someone to run with. There is nothing better than having a friend to motivate you to go out on your next run when you are not feeling it. That little push to go out on a run can make all the difference. Again, running clubs will meet weekly and will be welcoming and soon allow you to make new running friends. They will be full of people with different abilities, and pace groups, so don’t feel intimidated by joining.

Plan where you are going to run. You could just set off from your front door and run, but for so many reasons it is worth thinking about where you are going to run first. For safety reasons, especially when running in the dark, it is important that you can see and can be seen. Let people know where you are going.

Buy some great running shoes. Having a pair of running shoes that are right for your feet and your running needs is crucial. I would definitely recommend going to a specialist running shoe shop for your first pair where they can advise on the right shoes for you and the right fit for your feet. The range of running shoes available is enormous, and even as experienced runners you find yourself constantly buying different categories and brands/styles. However, until you know whether cushioned or stability shoes are what you like best, or the sizing and fit of different brands, then take some expert advice. I always feel that buying a new pair of running shoes is a contract with myself to take on my next challenge!

Buy a running watch. Today’s running watches can be your own personal running coach, with pace plans, route maps, and performance tracking. However, you don’t need a sophisticated model to help you take your first steps in running. Knowing how far you have run, and monitoring your pace, are key to any runner and are part of any running watch. Knowing you have run a little bit further or a little bit faster are amazing motivation for any runner.

So what are you waiting for? Get your running shoes on and feel better for a run.