|
|
My 3 Favorite Tips for Starting a Running Program (Tip 1)
With more spring like temperatures these days, I've been thinking a lot about running. As I've shared, I love running in all four seasons. I'm not a fair weather fan! At this time of year, when people are itching to get outside more and shed their winter insulation, I've mostly been thinking about how to help others start a running program to add to their healthy lifestyle.
Before you cringe, and say "No way, lady. I'm NOT a runner!" let me share something with you.
When I was younger, I was a sprinter. I loved short distance running. The thought of doing much more than a lap around the track didn't appeal to me in the least! In fact, it mostly made me want to toss my cookies. I saw no pleasure in that whatsoever!
The high school cross country coach somehow convinced me to try out for the team, so I did. (I was always such a "pleaser"! That's the only reason I can think of to explain why on earth I felt the need to listen to this man!) I ran several meets, but never really got into it very much. I remember thinking, "Why am I doing this?? Why can't I breathe??!! Can't I just run really, really fast for a few seconds, and be done with it? Now THAT I can do!"
In university, I roomed with a marathoner who felt it was her duty to change my simple ways! My runs got a little longer, but mostly because she and I had become great friends, so our runs together were a time to chat! She also helped me learn to breathe while running, a rather important skill!
I continued running over the years, mostly doing it because I felt I was "supposed to" in order to be healthy. I always felt good during and after running, it just didn't inspire me.
It wasn't until I went to a "Total Life Conditioning Boot Camp" that featured, among many other things, a running coach, that I truly began to enjoy long distance running.
I can still clearly recall the first "lesson" in running he gave us. To this day, I remember and apply the tips for easy and effective running.
Some of the best tips I've ever received for starting a running program or becoming a better runner are:
1)Let go of expectations.
Your running doesn't need to look a certain way or be a certain distance or any particular speed or duration. This is between you and the ground you cover. Don't take it so seriously!
If you set about the process of beginning a running program with the mentality that, "Every step I take is better than sitting on the couch" then you'll probably relax about the whole thing a lot more!
I used to psyche myself out with long distance running. If I started thinking about how far I "had to" go, my mental state of disdain would negatively effect my physical performance. I just started running, with no expectations. I just focused on putting one foot in front of the other, again, then again, then again! I learned to be in the moment, and enjoy it.
Whatever your starting point, just add a little more running to it. For example, if you're a walker, then just add a light jog to your walk, a few times if you feel up to it. Jog for 30 seconds, jog for 5 minutes.
It doesn't matter how long, just give it a try. Gradually add to the process. You might add more jogging intervals or jog for longer periods of time. You might turn your jogging into more running. Whatever! No pressure! This is supposed to be enjoyable, remember?
If you're already jogging or running, then maybe you don't need any tips at all! Or maybe you can go farther, or faster, or experience less discomfort, or enjoy the process more. No pressure!
In the next part of this article, I'll share my second favorite tip: "Run like an animal!"
About the Author Dr. Colleen Trombley ("Dr Mom Online") is a leading expert in Natural Health & Wellness. Discover why the healthiest, busiest women turn to Dr. Mom for practical tips regarding healthy lifestyle, nutrition, fitness & exercise, diet & weight loss, raising healthy kids, effective stress management, and more. Request your FREE special report revealing Dr. Mom's personal formula for success, "The Wellness Formula" at starting running program
|
 |
Please Rate: |
|
Rating: |
 Processing ... |
(Average: Not rated) |
| Views: | 81 | |
|
| More Articles from Aerobics | | |
| Top Articles in Aerobics | | |
|
