I loved Going to the gym. For almost 3 years I was on and off to the gym. It eventually became a mundane task. Running on a treadmill for 20 min, doing pushups can be tedious after a point of time. I am 26 years old Businesswoman. My work demands sitting at stretch for long 6-7 hours. Staying fit is one of my main priorities. So, this time I decided to start running.

How To Get Started

I was always into sports during my school days as well as college days. So it was not very difficult for me to get started. But if you are new to running, getting started won’t be simple. First and foremost you would need to be determined to get up and go for a run. Second, you need to invest in a good pair of running shoes. You need to make sure you are comfortable running with those shoes. A good pair of shoes will also prevent any sort of injuries. Once you have made up your mind, you will need to set a routine and stick to it. If you are a morning person for a run in the morning and if not go in the evening. If running alone makes you feel bored. Set up a running playlist. Plugin those earphones and play your favorite track. It won’t only calm your mind but also help you run that one extra mile.

Initially when you start running, take it slow. Don’t go for 3Km just running. Rather walk for 2 minutes and then run for 4 minutes. Run-walk is an awesome strategy for beginners. This will help you in doing longer runs.

The other thing you could do is download a fitness tracker app on your phone. There are many free apps available, download anyone that you like. It can help you keep track of how much you ran on a particular day, week or month. You can track your own progress and set a goal for the future.

 

What To Expect

The first few weeks will be tough, believe me! You will feel incredibly sore. Your mind might say to give up. But this is the time you need to push yourself. The best way to relieve soreness is by doing physical activity. So keep going. The other thing you need to do is stretching. Follow is a warm-up session and a cool down after a run. Initially, when you start running don’t expect to run a straight 3 km without stopping. Remember the run-walk method! Walk a bit, catch your breath and start running again. Your running expectations need to be realistic or you’re only going to be disappointed.

 

How To Find A Place

I live in a city which has lots of lakes. So, I choose a running path which is near the lake. So I am able to enjoy scenic beauty too. You can choose any place you like. If you live in a metropolitan city, go to a park and you can also find some company there. Some cities also have an exclusive running track. If you are a person who doesn’t like to run alone then find yourself a company. Ask any of your friends to join you. Having someone to accompany you, will also keep you motivated and lessen your chances of giving up.

Likely you can also participate in marathons. Initially, you can start with half marathons and eventually go for full ones. Every city or club hosts a marathon throughout the year. Marathons are a great way to build your confidence. Even if you don’t win, you will know your ability and how far you have come as a runner.

If you are a student, you can participate in the 100m, 200m, 400m races, according to your ability.

Benefits Of Running

Running significantly improves your physical and mental health. It’s not only a great way to get in shape but it also helps to lift up your mood. Getting used to running can be vicious. But once you get used to it, it can be blissfull. Running is a great way to burn calories. It is the king of cardio. Running can help in improving your mental health. If you’re feeling down, a good 20 min run can easily lift your mood. Running also helps to fight depression.

Running regularly helps you to get a sound sleep. It also helps to clear your mind and make you more focused.

Running is the most convenient activity. Unlike going to the gym, playing badminton you can do it anywhere. Even if you are on a holiday, or on a work trip you can still go for a run. All you need is a pair of shoes and you are ready to go. You can even take your dogs with you for a run.

It’s also cheap. Unlike your pricey gym membership or expensive dance workout studios. Running is free. It doesn’t require any type of equipment.

Running improves your cardiovascular fitness. It even strengthens your joints muscles. Running is the best workout for your legs. Your inner and outer thigh, quads, hamstring everything is active at the same time. It’s like a dozen leg workout in one.

Drawbacks

Running has no major drawbacks. The only problem you can face is injuries. If not done properly you may injure your muscles. One of the most important things you can do to avoid injury is running in the right shoes. Walk for some time in those shoes before running in it. So that your foot gets comfortable in it. If during the run you feel like fainting or your heart beating too fast, just stop for a while and rest. Your stamina will eventually increase with time.

Follow your running routine. Don’t run on uneven and sandy surfaces. Run-on a running track. Running won’t show results quickly. Like your weight didn’t increase overnight. Give some time. It will show results.

I don’t run just to lose weight. It’s more about staying fit, physically and mentally. So run and have fun!