I was gifted some items from adidas for the purposes of this post. All words and opinions are my own.
I first started running when I was in my 20s, I enjoyed the freedom and, for someone who had never been what you might call ‘sporty’, I found it surprisingly easy to get into. I did many events, even managing a half marathon, before life got in the way.
In recent years I have had a few spurts, where I’ve got back into running, only to give up again. Then, this year I finally reached the point where I knew that something had to change. I was fed up with so many aspects of my life, yet felt too overwhelmed to do anything about it. I think turning 40 was finally the catalyst that I needed to make some changes. I don’t know about you, but those milestone birthdays really do get you thinking!
Things were definitely easier when I wasn’t juggling full time work and kids, but since the start of the year I have finally found a balance that works and am enjoying being active again. Running is the foundation of this as I find it is the perfect exercise for fitting around a busy life. There’s no driving to the gym, or getting together lots of equipment and no subscription fees. Whenever I have a spare half an hour I can head out for a quick run to clear my head and get my heart pumping. I often run on my way to pick up the kids or on my way back from the morning school run (depending on what shift I’m working). This makes it a super efficient use of my time and helps me fit exercise into my busy life.
I know, I know, everyone always says that running is so simple: you just pull on your trainers and head out the door. But is it really that simple? How do you actually start running?
The Right Kit
You need very little kit to start running, but it is important to get a decent pair of running shoes. I find that men’s and women’s running shoes fit differently, so I always go for women’s, rather than unisex, in order to get a better fit. You don’t need to spend hundreds of pounds on your first pair, but it is worth doing some research and getting the best you can afford. Also consider where you will be running. If you’re going to be going off road, it could be worth looking at trail running shoes, as they will offer more support and grip over rough terrain.
My new adidas Supernova Strides are the most comfortable running shoes I’ve ever worn. (They are very pretty too!)
Other than that (and a decent sports bra), you’re pretty much ready to hit the road! Any comfortable activewear is fine.
Start Slowly
Firstly, make sure that you do a proper warm up before you do any running. I do a few stretches and a bit of power walking to get my muscles loosened up. Have a look online for some ideas if you’re not sure. For example, here is a good basic warm up that anyone can do.
A good stretch is vital before you start running
Then start by brisk walking with short bursts of running at a pace you are comfortable with. When I first started running many years ago I would literally walk to a lamppost, then run to the next one, then walk to the next, then run and so on and so forth. Gradually I ran for longer and cut the walking down, until I could run for about 20 mins non stop. From then on I just tried to run all the time, even if I sometimes needed to slow it down.
This time around I found it easier to run all the time, as I found that breaking into a walk disrupted my rhythm. If I get tired, I just slow my run down to a sustainable pace, but I do try to keep going. I find that once I’m in a rhythm and have got my breathing in sync with my strides, I just need to keep moving!
If you’re struggling to get started, the Couch to 5K app is perfect for those starting running from scratch. It is really user friendly and makes 5k very achieveable for anyone.
Keeping Motivated
Once you’ve made a start with running, it can be hard to keep going. Once you’re in the habit, it does become easier, but what can you do on those days when you’re struggling for motivation?
Back in the day I always had a running event booked in to keep me motivated. These days a lack of time (and confidence!) means that this option isn’t realistic. I do hope to maybe do a couple of 10K races next year, but I’m a way off this yet. In the meantime I keep myself on track by signing up to challenges on Strava. These challenges are an achievable way to keep me motivated and there is always a range to choose from.
If that doesn’t suit you, why not enlist the help of a friend to be your running buddy so you have someone to be accountable to. Alternatively, there are many running/jogging groups everywhere that are for a range of abilities, so it’s worth having a look at what is available in your area. And of course, once you can run 5K, don’t forget Parkrun, the weekly free run that is held just about everywhere. I have always found my local one very friendly and supportive.
Cross Training
As I said earlier, running is definitely the most important exercise I do, but I also find it helpful to throw in a few other activities. Not only does it stop me getting bored, but I find that it’s a great way to get stronger, improve my posture and ward off injuries.
I combine running with a bit of yoga (I just follow videos on youtube, there are hundreds to choose from and I do 20 mins here and there), I also do some online fitness classes, plus of course I love hiking and being outdoors. This gives me a good all round level of fitness and I have really noticed the difference in my core strength, which helps my running as it means I can maintain a good posture for longer. Other good options are swimming or pilates, but any exercise that you enjoy will help.
Time outdoors with the family helps to keep my level of fitness up
Getting over the Embarrassment
I know it’s not easy, especially if you haven’t done any exercise in a while (or ever), and even now I feel self conscious when running in public. Trust me, I get it.
If I had the choice, I would really prefer to not have to run in public. I don’t enjoy it at all and there is no easy answer to this. You can go out when it’s quieter, but chances are you will still see a few people about, especially if like me you live in a town.
I just block everything out as far as possible. I try to concentrate on what I’m doing, keeping my breathing regular and my strides even and straight (I’m not a natural athlete so it takes effort to keep myself moving!) I wear a cap which, as well as keeping the sun off my face, also helps me to feel a little more anonymous, and I sometimes listen to music to help me zone out. It is something you have to deal with, just be reassured that other people feel just as self conscious as you do. In fact, they are almost certainly more worried about how they look, than thinking anything about you.
I’m by no means an expert, but hopefully this has given you some ideas to help you get started.
Have you ever tried running? Let me know what helped to get you started.
