All right, listen to me. Beginning a running journey may be both thrilling and daunting. Seeing runners accomplish this with ease—and occasionally without even perspiring—makes you question if you’ll reach the corner without running out of breath.
I’m here to assure you that there is nothing to be afraid of or to lose. You can plan your path and transform those ideas into a running pattern.
Exercise raises blood levels of endocannabinoids, according to David Linden, Ph.D., a neuroscience professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. These set off neuromodulators that improve mood, which lower anxiety.
Regular exercisers may also see an increase in the volume of their hippocampus, the area of the brain linked to memory and learning. According to Linden, it can also boost your mood, enhance your memory and concentrate, and help you switch between tasks.
Additionally, running guarantees better sleep, enhances knee and back health, and boosts cardio health.
Here are five strategies to get your running career off to a great start this year:
1. Establish a goal for yourself: Begin modestly, switching between running and walking. Additionally, you may monitor your progress on many apps, like Nike Run Club, Strava, and Runna. Setting a future objective to run a 5K in a few months or to run for a mile or so without stopping is another option.
2. Take precautions and get high-quality equipment: Since you must take care of your feet, high-quality running shoes are essential. Put on running shoes that fit your body type and running style appropriately.
You might also think about wearing comfy and dry training clothes if you have the money. Spending money on looks may be alluring, but practicality should come first. Nevertheless, it’s always in trend to appear cute, and it might even make you eager for your run!
3. Make it enjoyable but realistic: Pick a schedule that suits your needs and way of life. The secret is consistency.
-
You can pick
specific days
and times that feel right for you,
- Start with shorter runs and slowly build up the pace,
- Make a habit out of it.
Your body and mind will quickly adjust, and it will no longer feel like a job but rather like a fun aspect of your day.
4. Look for companions that share your objectives:Finding your motivation is a good place to start: What motivates you? You want to run, but why? Is it for mental or physical well-being?
- Running with a friend or joining a local running club in the beginning can make it less daunting. Houston has several!
- You can also listen to music or a podcast while you re running.
5. Give yourself a treat: When you reach a milestone, give yourself to a tiny pleasure! Take a snooze or get that smoothie—you deserve it!
This relates to your quest for self-awareness. Remember why you started, even though it can seem difficult at first. Celebrate your victories along the way and don’t compare your pace to anyone else’s. It requires patience to run. Pay attention to your body and take breaks as necessary.
Showing up for your future self, one step at a time, is more important than being the fastest.
Best of luck with your running regimen!
