- It's never too late!
A race isn’t just for athletic enthusiasts. The sense of achievement attached to accomplishing goals you have set for yourself can really kick your self-esteem into shape. Regular activity will also allow you to build up increased levels of strength and stamina so that everyday tasks will take less out of you.
- Stay determined & start out gently.
Gradually build up duration and intensity over a period of time. Starting out, speed should take a back seat while you focus on increasing the distance you can run. It is so much more important to find a comfortable pace that allows you to progress gradually and not feel torn to shreds at the end of each run.
- Try different routes, surfaces & conditions for your runs.
If you enjoy running on the roads, try to give yourself a break now and then by running on grass, around a field, or on a trail. However, be prepared, if it is rainy or cold. Similarly, don’t get caught out in the sun or dark.
- Shoe shop!
What you put on your feet is possibly the most important consideration when starting out. The choice you make can not only enhance your performance but also effect your running enjoyment while remaining injury free. It is worth it to spending some time researching this online or visiting your local specialist sports shop to seek their expert advice.
- Warm up & cool down.
As important as the run itself, the warm up is the way to prepare yourself. Don’t fall into the trap of going straight at it just to get it over with. Allocate a certain amount of time for preparation. Similarly, each run should end with a cool down. As with the warm up, your body needs to adjust back down.
“Once you start, keep it going,” said Dr. Simons. “Set a challenging but realistic goal and see it through. Challenge yourself, not other runners. Reward yourself and think of the benefits and feelings of eventual achievement. Good luck and see you at the finish line!”
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