If so, I’ve got some thoughts, ideas, stories to share with you.

It was almost exactly one year ago that I started my little romance with running. I had always ran a little here or there in the gym, but in October 2010 I resolved to really take an honest crack at my running potential.

As Priscilla Welch said, “If you want to become the best runner you can be, start now. Don’t spend the rest of your life wondering if you can do it.”

So, I made a schedule, I soaked up all the tools, resources, and knowledge I could. Now, a year later, I am more hooked and excited about running then ever.

Running is powerful. It can not only transform your body, but it can build up some real grit in your spirit as well. The sweat, the miles, the aches, the pounding of the pavement isn’t for nothing. The pay off is HUGE. The sense of accomplishment, the stress relief of it all, the glory in those moments you succeed. Running is the “break- it- down to build- it- back-up” theory in action!

Running takes guts. It hurts. But, if you have the patience and dedication to stick with it, the joys of running far out weigh the pain running can entail. PLEASURE>PAIN ! Most people who do not understand this described “thrill” of running, have probably never pushed themselves or endured it long enough to truly reap the benefits. The seemingly mystic, fairy tale “runners high” DOES exist, but you HAVE to be willing to sweat, and maybe even cry a little to get it. Nothing worthwhile comes for free or without sacrifice. Nothing worthwhile comes with half-assed effort!

Ok! So now that I have scared off half you and convinced you NOT to run, let me address the other half of you who are still interested in “becoming a runner”.

Some Tips I found Useful When First “Becoming a Runner”:

1. MAKE A PLAN! SET A SCHEDULE! Running will not just happen. You must carve out time. Set weekly goals for yourself. What’s your mileage goal? Or maybe you have a time/pace goal? There are so many awesome online resources that will help you build a program. Use them.

2. DON”T GIVE UP! Often times, the pay off of running is several weeks or months down the road, but you must stick with it.

3. ENTER RACES! You would be shocked at the physiological effect this can have on your training. Having something to train for is hugely motivating. Crossing your first finish is an incredible feeling. You can not prepare yourself enough for the overwhelming exhilaration that will sweep over you after a race.

4. INVOLVE OTHERS! Get a running partner or an accountability partner. Talking about your goals with people who care is great fuel. Hearing other runners’ stories and tips can be very inspiring, as well as educational.

5. GET THE RIGHT GEAR! Running shorts, sports bras, socks, shoes, etc. can really affect your run. Take the time and invest some money in getting the proper gear. This will not only help you to be more comfortable during your runs, but it will also keep you safe and injury free.

6. MORE INJURY PREVENTION! Stretching, icing, and foam rolling should be a normal part of your running routine. Stretching and foam rolling will keep your muscles long and flexible, icing will reduce inflammation and swelling. You NEED to do this stuff if you want to run long term. If you don’t take the time for these things, you will probably face an injury down the road and deal with many unnecessary aches and pain.

7. MIX IT UP! The best way to keep you interested and able to keep on running is to cross train, which simply means to mix it up. Try biking, swimming, or the elliptical a few days a week so that you are giving your joints and brain a rest from running.

8. WORKING THE CORE! Strong core=better runner. Period. No way around it. Exercising your core will give you better stamina and endurance during your runs. Your legs won’t fatigue as quickly if you have a strong center. In addition, doing things like rows will help your posture while you run, which can really reduce low back pain, or tightness through your shoulder and neck muscles.

9. FOOD IS FUEL. A crappy diet will lead to a crappy run. Eat smart. Which means always eating breakfast first thing, eating 5-6 smaller healthy meals throughout the day, and getting enough healthy carbs, protein and fats in your diet.

10. Make it about YOU! Don’t compare yourself to anyone. Who cares how fast so and so runs. Running is YOUR sport with YOUR body. At times, your running won’t always go as planned or expected… some days will be harder for no good reason. Don’t fret over a missed day. Don’t obsess about how many miles you log. Every day is an opportunity to lace those shoes up and try again!

Make sure YOU manage your running… don’t let your running manage YOU!

“I always loved running…it was something you could do by yourself, and under your own power. You could go in any direction, fast or slow as you wanted, fighting the wind if you felt like it, seeking out new sights just on the strength of your feet and the courage of your lungs.”
-Jesse Owens