5 Running Tips for Beginners

30 DAYS, 50 MILES

With our first {FIT} challenge underway, I thought it would be the perfect time to share what has helped me become a better runner. Running can be intimidating, but it's not impossible. We all have to start somewhere and with these 5 tips, you'll be running like a pro in no time! 

TIP 1: FIND THE RIGHT FIT

Before you even attempt to go anywhere, take a look at what you're putting on your feet. We all know that there is no one size fits all when it comes to shoes, but you may be surprised to learn there is also no one style fits all. Everyone is unique and that means that our feet have unique needs! To maximize your comfort and safety during your run, find the shoe that is right for you. Click here for a guide on how to choose running shoes. 

TIP 2: CHECK YOUR FORM

Proper form means getting the most out of your workout in a safe and efficient manner. Are you running properly? 

Your head should be level and your eyes forward. Keep your shoulders low & loose, not high & tight. Open up your chest and allow yourself to breathe. Swing your arms forward & back, they are a powerful tool that should be utilized! Lightly clench your fists, but don't squeeze for dear life. Bend your elbows at a 90 degree angle and keep them between your chest and waist. Run tall, don't slouch. Posture is key. Your hips should guide you, so point them forward and don't become twisted. Keep your knees low, for short, efficient strides. Proper form, means healthy knees. Your lower legs shouldn't extend out beyond your body. Keep everything in line as you run. Flex your ankles as you push off. Your feet should land underneath, not in front of, your body. When you are landing, hit the ground lightly and spring off the ground with power! Land on the mid foot area, then roll forward onto your toes and push off.

TIP 3: BE A GOAL GETTER

Set both big and small goals for yourself. Register for a 5k, 10k, or half marathon! No matter what level you have achieved, you should always set a goal that will push you to improve. While you are training also set smaller, daily goals. Each time you lace up, try to run for 1 minute longer than the day before, or farther, or faster! Smaller goals help keep you motivated and you'll find that attaining your larger goal becomes a lot less overwhelming. Celebrate every feat. Slow and steady wins the race!

I track my progress with the Nike+ Running app. To read my review, click here.

TIP 4: ENJOY THE RIDE

Go explore! Take full advantage of the opportunity to get outside and appreciate nature, smell the fresh air, follow your foot steps to new and foreign lands. Take a moment to pause and look around at the world you live in. Become familiar with your surroundings, listen to the leaves on the trees blow in the wind, or the rush of the river. A run can achieve so much more than just exercise for your body. You are given a chance to gain mental clarity & new perspectives. 

TIP 5: FOOD AS FUEL

Food does more than just cure your hunger pains. Remember that old saying, you are what you eat? Well, I am here to tell you that there is some truth to that statement. What you put in your body directly affects what you get out of your body. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to what they eat pre and post run, but consider a few key ideas: eat clean, eat fresh, eat whole, eat lean, eat organic. If you can't pronounce it, you probably shouldn't eat it. Eliminate processed foods, refined sugars, and empty calories. Know what you are putting in your body and why you are putting it there. Educate yourself and you'll be bouncing back from those tough runs with even more energy than before! Replenish your body with plenty of nutrients and hydrate with plenty of water.

I hope that by applying these tips you become a running machine! What has made you the runner you are today? Share your tips with me in the comments below.

L.