Running tips: Starting your running journey

Before you start running make sure you are in good physical health. This is very important so, if necessary, get checked out by a doctor before you begin. Even if you think you’re not a runner or are finding it tough to get started, give it a go and once you get going, you’ll find it hard to stop – and the results will be so rewarding. Here are our top tips to help you get started and become a great runner: 1. Your feet matter so get yourself a decent pair of shoes. Go to a specialist running store for a gait analysis and advice on the appropriate shoe for your foot type running style. Trust us, the shoes you wear when running make a world of difference. 2. Your running clothes should be comfortable; they should absorb sweat well and shouldn’t chafe or give you blisters. 3. Find a running buddy, someone who can motivate you to go for your runs on those days when you just don’t want to. 4. Gradually build up your running distances. Don’t run too far too early on as you may put your body under too much stress, leading to injury. A good rule of thumb is to increase your distance by 10 per cent every week. 5. Mix up the terrain you run on and the types of runs you do. Include some track work for interval or tempo training, some hills for hill training and some flatter longer scenic routes for your long runs. 6. Always make sure you warm up thoroughly before any run with some dynamic stretches. Don’t forget to cool down thoroughly after each run. 7. Include strength training and aerobic cross-training in your weekly routine to keep your joints and ligaments strong, and to increase your aerobic conditioning. 8. Make sure you have at least one or two rest days a week. Always listen to your body. It gives you signs when you may training too hard it or when you need to take a rest. Be sensible in the short term, as it will be advantageous in the long run. Information brought to you by Momentum Bootcamps