If you read my blog because you’re contemplating becoming a runner but aren’t quite ready yet, or you’re a couch to 5K dropout and think that running is just not your thing, this post is meant for YOU.
It’s not easy to start running in the body you have right now. If you’re overweight, or haven’t been exercising for awhile, or even if you work out three times a week but every time you try to go for a run it feels like you have a 50-pound backpack on, and someone is sitting on your chest…
Whatever the reason, running can feel like a really scary thing to start doing. Especially if you’ve tried it and failed. And tried again. And failed. And…
I totally get it.
You might think you need to be in better shape, lose 20 pounds, or have the perfect pair of running shoes before you can be a real runner. That you magically need to have an hour open up in your schedule every day. That you just need to learn the secret formula to foot placement, or breathing rhythm, or nutrition. If you could just get past that first 10 minutes of suffering, it would be so much easier.
But…becoming a runner also sounds kinda fun, right?
Seeing everyone’s finish-line pictures on Facebook, showing off their medals, smiling and happy and proud. Kinda makes you want to see what it’s all about.
The freedom of being able to exercise right in your own neighborhood, just step out your front door and go. Running in your local park, ponytail swinging behind you, an awesome playlist on your phone, feeling like you can fly. Wouldn’t that be incredible?
I’m going to tell you a secret that nobody else knows (except every runner on the planet)…the best time to start running is right now. Right this moment.
You already have everything you need. Sneakers? Check. Workout clothes? Check. Phone? Check. That’s it, that’s all you need.
Go ahead, put your shoes on.
Then download a free timer app for your phone, set it for 20 seconds of running/2 minutes of walking, and just go. For 20 minutes. It’s going to be easier than you think.
You might even enjoy it, and you might even want to do it again…and again…and then you sign up for a 5K…and another…and OMG what just happened you’re addicted to running!
OK – I might have gotten a little ahead of myself (but seriously, that’s how most people get started)
Anyway, I want you to try running today. Just do it, if not for yourself, for me (assuming you have your doctor’s clearance, of course).
Aaannnnddd…if you want a little extra help doing it, schedule a free Accelerator Session with me to see if working with a running coach is a good fit for you. Go to www.TalkToJill.com to pick a time.
P.S. If you took my advice, put your shoes on and went out for that 20 minute run, I’d love to hear how it went!
Thanks for the encouragement! The two things that trip me up as a beginner are lung capacity/finding the right pace for me and avoiding shin splints. I know intervals are the way to build up with both of these things, but I get frustrated when I try to start slowly and even then my shins and/or lungs are burning.