Submitted by: Low Carb Tiki
So you want to start running but you don’t know where to begin. It’s easier than you think. Some people think they can’t start running because of various health issues but it’s not true. For a number of diseases running can help reduce the impact or reverse the condition. I know a number of people who were able to get off their blood pressure and diabetes meds. As with any exercise, you must change your diet. You can’t out train a bad diet. I literally run for my life. I have a medical condition that requires me to do some form of exercise. Start running now because you want to before you are put in a position that you have to run.
- Do go to a running store to get properly fitted. A good pair of shoes is the foundation of running. Good shoes will help prevent injuries later. Plus, you need to know why type of shoe works best for your foot. I started out with a neutral shoe only to find out I needed one with support because I pronate. Since I’ve been fitted with the right shoes I’m not experiencing pair or blisters.
- Do purchase socks made for running to prevent blisters. They will be your best friend. Running socks wick away moisture to prevent friction that causes blisters.
- Do look for a running group or free classes in your area. My local store sends out emails with various free workshop to help improve form, breathing and teach the basics of running. Joining a running group will also provide you with support and motivation. I belong to Black Girls Run here in FL. It is a national group. They have pushed me and helped me improve.
- Do make sure you don’t run alone. There is truly safety in numbers. There was an article recently posted in our group about a tragic incident with two sisters. One sister turned around to go get something she left in the car and was robbed in murdered. I can’t stress enough not to go out alone and never leave your partner.
- Do carry some form of protection. I recently purchase pepper spray from eBay that looks like a tube of lipstick. The other ladies I run with carry spray or a taser.
- Do listen to your body.
- Do keep your hydration up and make sure your electrolytes are balanced.
- Do talk to your doctor is you have medical conditions. The two of you can work out a plan that is best for you.
- Do have patience. You don’t become a runner overnight. I would suggest the Couch to 5K program to ease you into running.
- Do know that duct tape, moleskin, and powder are your friends. Yes, duct tape. If you develop blisters or to prevent blister wrap your feet in duct tape. I’ve done it and it made it possible for me to hit the pavement the next day without having a setback.
- Don’t compete or compare yourself with others. The too started somewhere and were not always as fast or had endurance and stamina. Start where you are and work from there.
- Don’t push your body too fast too soon. This can lead to injuries. Most people get shin splints not only from bad shoes but increasing their speed before the body is ready to do so. Not only that you run the risk of burning out and giving up because you’ve done more than your body can handle.
- Don’t use the same pair of shoes past the life expectancy. Yes, running shoes have an expiration of sorts. When you purchase shoes ask the sales person how many miles you can put on that pair of shoes. You will know when your shoes are old because you will start to feel aches and pains and possibly start developing blisters. Trust me because I learned this one the hard way. Blister on your toes and the balls of your feet are not fun.
- Last but not least, don’t give up or get discouraged!
Low Carb Tiki, thank you for your contribution to this blog and sharing your do’s and don’t of running. Low Carb Tiki is a running enthusiast and you can read her blog at www.lowcarbtiki.blogspot.com. Be sure to check her out!
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