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You are here: Home / Lifestyle / Fitness / 5 Tips On Running For Beginners

5 Tips On Running For Beginners

17 Comments

I started running back in 2010 because it was one of the least expensive forms of exercise and a great way to get in cardio. Running, in the beginning, was easier for me because I was 50 lbs lighter; however, my weight gain (from medication) didn’t deter me from continuing to run. I had a period where my doctor told me that I could no longer run because of Lupus. OK so, I’m a little hardheaded, and let’s be honest, running is addictive.

5 tips on running for beginners that will save you time and frustration when starting out. www.growitgirl.com

I’ll be honest and say I have a love-hate relationship with running and there are days that I simply don’t want to roll out of bed. However, my love of running is what keeps me going. There are a few things I wish I knew then that I know now and I wanted to share my tips on running for beginners. I’ll save you some of the stress and dare I say, cursing from frustration that I experienced back when I started out. LOL!

1. Get Fitted – Even after years of running, I still go to my local running store to get fitted for a proper pair of running shoes. With my weight loss, there is a change in stride and I found out the hard way that the wrong pair of shoes can cause pain and blisters. When you go in for a fitting, the store will ask you to run on a treadmill or an in-store course. From there, they are able to see where your feet strike and if you pronate. I can’t stress enough how properly fitting shoes make a huuuge difference. I’m currently wearing Saucony but my overall favorite shoes are Mizunos. When my mileage is up on my current shoes, I’m going back to Mizunos. I love the brand and so do my knees. LOL!

2. Set Realistic Expectations – Running is a sport that you have to build and grow with over a period of time. You can’t start running today and expect to run a seven-minute mile. Heck, I’m lucky if I can’t eke out a 12-minute mile these days and that’s okay. You won’t be the fastest runner just starting out. I was next to last for my first race. I learned a huge lesson about Florida humidity during that run, but I also ran “my” race and didn’t compare myself to those around me.

A picture of me after running my first race. www.growitgirl.com

3. Find A Running App or Watch – You will need a way to track your runs. When I started out, I used MapMyRun. It wasn’t until a few years in that I finally purchased a Garmin but I still use MapMyRun on the days that I forget my watch at home. I believe I’m the only person with a Garmin in the running group. I opted for the version that tracks my run and heart rate. I know I need to keep my heart rate in a certain range to maximize my weight loss and it also keeps me from overexerting myself. I would not recommend the Nike app because I found it to be very unreliable.

My Garmin running watch and MapMyRun running app. www.growitgirl.com

As you can see from my picture, MapMyRun will store all of your recorded runs indefinitely. That is my very first runway back in 2010.

4. Join A Group – Joining a running group serves a number of purposes. It keeps you motivated, holds you accountable, and it’s just fun being out with a group. Becoming part of a group is the best decision I made during my journey and I’m so spoiled now that I refuse to run alone. Contact your local running store because they have a list of the running groups in your area. I would also advise joining the group associated with the major running store in your area because you normally receive discounts on races for being a member. Well, that discount goes a few ways. You receive a discount at the shoe store for being a member of the group and you receive a discount on races sponsored by the group for being a member. Discounts all around!!! I’ve never paid full price for shoes or a race. I’m just saying…save your money! LOL!

5. Be Consistent – It’s easy to fall off the wagon and not run, especially during the winter months. The consequence of taking a few weeks off is the struggle of getting back into shape. Even a few days will leave you feeling like you haven’t run in months. If you are consistent in your runs, you will not experience the struggle of getting winded and slowing your pace. I took the time off my doctor advised and I went from a 12 min mile back to a 17 min mile in a matter of just a few months. I spent this summer trying to get back to where I was earlier this year. For some reason, the saying “Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready” comes to mind. Stay consistent and you won’t take steps back that will ultimately leave you frustrated.

I have so many other tips that I will share over time. Before you start, please get fitted for the proper shoes. I hurt my knee and experienced so much pain in the beginning because I went to my local shoe store and grab a random pair of New Balance sneakers. Don’t get me wrong, I love New Balance, but I can’t run in their shoes. I wear them now for fashion.

Grow It Girl.com Signature

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Filed Under: Fitness Tagged With: Fitness, Runners, Running, Running Tips, Weight Loss

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Frederick Dyer says

    June 4, 2022 at 2:50 AM

    hanks a lot for sharing such a great piece of article! I found it a good helpful write-up with a good sound and explanation. Here I have seen some valuable ideas that are definitely helpful for every running enthusiast. Please keep sharing more updates!

    Reply
  2. John Gatesby says

    April 29, 2021 at 8:06 AM

    I am really amazed by your willpower. It is not easy to do something as physically intensive or exhausting as running with lupus. Did you face any major hindrances while regularly pursuing your regular running regimen because of lupus?

    Reply
  3. Jay | RelaxedThairapy.com says

    May 12, 2016 at 7:18 PM

    I miss running. I have bad shin splints. I now just do short runs and then walk a bit….run some more….then walk. My shins be on fire!
    Jay | RelaxedThairapy.com recently posted…What Does Good Hair Mean To You?My Profile

    Reply
  4. Christine @MomsNCharge says

    October 29, 2015 at 10:51 PM

    I am definitely a novice…and can’t say I really like to run. But these are great tips because I never knew anything about getting fitted for running shoes! I have several friends who like to run, but I had never heard of this. Thanks so much for sharing!
    Christine @MomsNCharge recently posted…Beaches Resorts – Social Media on the Sand in Turks and CaicosMy Profile

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  5. Chrystal, ChryssVI says

    October 23, 2015 at 5:19 PM

    The thought of running long distance is a bit intimidating. One day, girl. One day ?
    Chrystal, ChryssVI recently posted…Start Making Money Today With Multiple Streams of IncomeMy Profile

    Reply
  6. Aisha Adams Johnson says

    October 20, 2015 at 9:55 AM

    i have always wanted to be runner. I mak bad at it… Lol… I feel like if I ever just get okay at it I would be too proud. Thanks for sharing this… I have been in slump when it comes to excerise but I am ready to get it under control…
    Aisha Adams Johnson recently posted…4 other places I like to submit my YouTube videosMy Profile

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  7. LaShawn says

    October 20, 2015 at 6:31 AM

    Great tips! I am a lapsed runner, but I’ll be getting started again soon! Great tips

    Reply
  8. Tyra says

    October 19, 2015 at 12:13 PM

    If I were a runner, I think joining a group would be so important for the accountability aspect. And the proper shoes are clutch in avoiding injury. Great post.
    Tyra recently posted…A Journey Around the World Via Los Angeles Fashion WeekMy Profile

    Reply
  9. Mimi "MimiCuteLips" Green says

    October 19, 2015 at 9:30 AM

    Great tips, I was running and I started to enjoy it. I’ve fallen off a bit and need to start over.
    Mimi “MimiCuteLips” Green recently posted…What you need to know about Breast Cancer, BRCA Testing & BREVAGenplus®My Profile

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  10. Jonna Scott-Blakes says

    October 18, 2015 at 3:20 PM

    I used to love running because I was able to really clear my mind. But I find that strength training is my thing now – I do more of that than cardio.
    Jonna Scott-Blakes recently posted…Massage Now Hosts #FallforMassageNow Event in NYCMy Profile

    Reply
  11. Holly says

    October 18, 2015 at 11:31 AM

    I used to run track a long time ago. I like running in the great outdoors. I am not one for marathons though.
    Holly recently posted…Fun and Different Things To Do In Las Vegas Pt. 2My Profile

    Reply
  12. kita says

    October 18, 2015 at 11:28 AM

    I don’t run unless a bear is after me…I do however try to walk as much as possible The kids and I are going exploring next week while they are on fall break so we can get some walking in
    kita recently posted…3 ways to Flex your Business ExpertiseMy Profile

    Reply
  13. Ty says

    October 16, 2015 at 11:43 PM

    I HATE running. I think its such a great way to work out but I can’t stand it. I agree with you, a group is a great idea for a beginner because you can motivate one another.
    Thanks for the tips.

    Reply
  14. Staci says

    October 16, 2015 at 11:27 PM

    I ran track almost all my life. I became less active when I became a mom. I’m currently working on my health and running more. I enjoy running, it’s therapeutic to me. I just have to make the time and stop the excuses.
    Staci recently posted…Smile, Because You Can!My Profile

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  15. Chasing Joy says

    October 16, 2015 at 11:45 AM

    Running is so hard. I have never stuck with it long enough for it to get easier.
    Chasing Joy recently posted…Joy In The Single Mother By Choice Journey Part 3: Collaboration AnswersMy Profile

    Reply
  16. Janelle says

    October 16, 2015 at 11:19 AM

    OMG! I HATE running too LOL. But thanks for sharing your honesty here. I do a LOT of walking daily. So far lost 3 pds by simply walking around my work environment daily. Honestly did not want to lose weight, but I guess i’m healthy though? Walking just the same or equivalent to running? Some what?
    Janelle recently posted…The One Hour Play Date Using Simple Arts & Crafts Tools and Supplies for Mommy and Her Little Mini-MeMy Profile

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  17. Patrice M Foster says

    October 16, 2015 at 11:15 AM

    I am just into walking now have not get the courage to start running . These are interesting and doable tips for beginners …Especially like join a group for support this is the only way to start thanks for sharing.
    Patrice M Foster recently posted…Pursuit of Happiness take timeMy Profile

    Reply

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Hi, I’m Tiki. I’m a mother of two, lover of life, and a southern belle. I like to cook y’all! I love all things pretty and I’m partial to glitter and pink. I love chatting with my readers about all thing hair, beauty, food, and life…and trying new goodies.

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