Beginning to Run

I don't know how many of you out there are runners.  It doesn't seem like many of you are, because I'm sure if you were, we'd be running buddies, right?  I'm always looking for new running buddies.

So clearly, if you are not already a runner, you want to be, right?  Okay, maybe not.  While running is still incredibly hard for me (I know, I know, you've heard it a hundred times), I keep at it.  Sometimes I'm not entirely sure why, but I think it is partly the challenge and partly the way you can squeeze in a workout anywhere if you just remember to pack your shoes and a sports bra.  You don't need fancy machines or special equipment and you get to see new places.

While (DISCLAIMER) I am not a running expert, I've come up with two tips to help you if you want to become a runner that I've learned from experience.
1.Build up slowly.
2.Be consistent.

That's it. If you can master those two things you, too, can be a runner some day.  They're simple  tips, but let's break them down.

Build up slowly.  If you have not been exercising or running, you simply should not go out and attempt to run a mile.  I saw them do that on the Biggest Loser once and I was appalled.  These people who are extremely overweight show up at the ranch for the first time and are told they have to run a mile.  I'm surprised no one has died on that show.  You should start with a run/walk program and add no more than 10 % to your mileage each week.  If you push yourself too hard too fast, you're much more likely to get injured. Check out a reputable running plan.  There's the very popular Couch to 5k beginning running program or Jeff Galloway has some great run/walk programs. I had the most success with the run/walk program in Running for Mortals.

Be consistent. Even if you are building up your stamina and distance slowly (when I first started the Couch to 5k program I often did the same week's program for 2 or 3 weeks in a row before I could progress), the key is to be regular in your workouts.  You should NOT run or run/walk every day, but you should run or run/walk three times a week.  Even if it is hard, commit to going out and trying your best three times a week, and you will get stronger and faster.  Just stick with it.

One last piece of advice: if you work hard and become a runner, don't ever stop.  When ever I start to relax after a race and take a few weeks off from running, I seem to lose all ability to run.

If you're a runner, what do you love about running? If you're thinking about trying running out, what's been holding you back?