Terrific tips to help you in the long run!
We are comfortably in to 2014 now, which means that it’s time that all those New Year’s resolutions that you made start becoming reality. If one of your New Year’s resolutions was about taking up the exciting and rewarding pastime of long-distance running, it can be difficult for you to know where to start. Long-distance running is an activity that challenges your body and your mind, and it is important that if you want to truly enjoy this activity and gain the many benefits that it offers, that you begin carefully and build your way.
Long-distance running is not likely something you’re just going to jump into.You want to make sure that the effort you put into your running early on is rewarded with continuing success, rather than leaving you over exerted and potentially injured. If you are ready to embark on your journey into long-distance running, here is your guide to getting started:
Know Your Clothes
What you choose to wear while running will make a major difference in your comfort, and the success of each workout. Make sure that you choose running clothes that are comfortable, but that are also fitted enough to promote free movement of your entire body. If you plan on running in the early morning, evening or at night, make sure that the closing you choose is brightly colored or features reflective ribbon so that you remain visible to passing motorists. Select Running from this Six:02 Fit Guide to find the right running clothes.
to find the right running clothes.Choose Your Shoes
The shoes that you wear are the single most important piece of clothing you will select when preparing to be a runner. When choosing your running shoes, make sure that you don’t choose a pair that are too tight. It may seem as though choosing a snug pair of shoes is safest because they will stay on your feet, but having shoes that are too tight can actually cause damage to your feet and toes. One of the most common injuries that long distance runners experience is bruised and even broken toes cause by long hours spent pounding the pavement in overly restrictive running shoes. Your shoes should have at least half an inch of space between your big toe in the end of the shoe to allow for proper movement of your foot as it rolls through each step. Read about the many varieties of running shoes in Choosing the Perfect Running Shoe.
Start Slow
You are not going to go out and run 10 miles on your first day. You may not even go out and run one mile on your first day. The most important thing to keep in mind when you start working towards long-distance running is that you know your body and appreciate your limitation so that you don’t injure yourself in your earliest efforts. Know that in time you will work yourself up to further and further distances, and that it is much more important that you achieve these goals gradually rather than try to force yourself to do too much, too fast.
Take it Easy
Even the most hard-core of long-distance runners occasionally do a casual jog. This is because they know that their bodies and their minds can’t handle aggressive, intense runs on a regular basis. Interspersing more gentle runs will help you to avoid injuries, while also helping you to continue enjoying the activity.
While long-distance running is generally an individual pursuit, it can be extremely helpful for you to have the support and encouragement of a trainer or another runner, especially in the earliest stages of your participation in the activity. The support system will keep you motivated, and can also offer you tips for finding the greatest enjoyment and success in your running career. Try our running schedule to keep you on track and moving toward longer runs at a great pace.
Looking for a great playlist to keep you motivated? We have suggestions no matter your taste.
Check our our Running Tips for Absolute Beginners for more great info!
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