A Complete Beginner's Guide to Running
A COMPLETE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO RUNNING
It’s easier than you’d think to hit the ground running. Find the answer to all your questions, from what kit you need to what to do after your run in this complete beginner’s guide to running.
THE BENEFITS OF RUNNING
PEACE OF MIND
When you run your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These chemicals interact with receptors in your brain reducing your perception of pain as well as giving you that euphoric feeling known as a “runner’s high”.
It also leaves you with a much more positive outlook, naturally reducing your stress, and boosting your self-esteem giving you total peace of mind.
LOSE WEIGHT
If losing weight is your goal, then running is one of the best ways to achieve it. Not only will you burn calories as you run but you’ll give your metabolism a boost too.
IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH
Regular running helps lower your blood pressure and your cholesterol, strengthens and builds bones, as well as improving your cardiovascular system and immune system. It also increases your energy levels and reduces fatigue leaving you feeling healthy and strong.
BEFORE YOU GET STARTED
Proper running shoes and a correctly fitting sports bra for women are the most important pieces of kit you’ll need, whatever your ability or distance. But good, technical running gear and accessories can also make the difference between a good run and a great one.
TRAINERS
Knowing how your feet work is crucial to finding the right trainers to keep you running injury free, whatever your running training distance.
All Runners Need stores offer video gait analysis as part of our comprehensive running trainer fitting service.
Using video technology to analyse how your feet respond to every step, our expert fitters can assess how much you pronate - that’s the extent to which your foot naturally rolls inward when you run – and where your foot strikes the ground.
After a brief run through of your running history, any previous running injuries, and future running goals we can then use the results of your gait analysis to recommend the best shoe for you.
BRA
Women, whatever your size and shape a good fitting sports bra is just as important as what's on your feet to keeps you running and working out in comfort and without injury.
Get help and advice on how to find the perfect sports bra or pop into your nearest Runners Need store to get expert advice.
CLOTHING
For seasonal clothing tips check out our runner's guide to autumn, winter, spring, and summer to keep you running comfortably, whatever the weather.
General tips for running gear and accessories:
- When it comes to running clothing always select sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and breathable gear to help keep you cool and running comfortably.
- Look for mesh ventilation panels for airflow, seamless construction to avoid nasty rubbing, and UV protection to shield your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
- Steer clear of anything cotton; not only does it trap the heat but it soaks up sweat keeping the moisture against your skin increasing your chance of chafing.
- Invest in a good pair of technical run socks to keep your feet cool and the moisture away from your skin. Features to look out for are technical and sweat-wicking fabrics, mesh ventilation under your arch, as well as flat seams and a snug fit.
GETTING STARTED
COUCH TO 5K
So you're all kitted out ready to go but how long do you run for? Or hoe fast do you go? It can be really tricky to just start running; ; using a couch to 5k programme or app is a great way to easily work running into your busy schedule while giving you all the help and support you need.
Setting yourself a goal is the best way to stay motivated and focus your training, not to mention the sense of achievement you’ll feel as you reach your targets.
THE WARM UP
Stretching cold muscles with traditional, static stretches is more likely to increase your risk of injury. Instead, try dynamic stretches to increase blood flow to the active muscles. These are stretches that involve swings, kicks, and rolls which mimic your natural motion, increasing blood flow to the active joints and muscles, warming them up.
THE RUN
RUNNING TECHNIQUE
Don’t worry about your technique just yet, start by running in whatever way feels natural to you.
Just make sure you maintain a good posture to allow you to breathe easily:
- Keep your back straight and relaxed
- Keep your shoulders down
- Keep your head up
BREATHING TECHNIQUE
It’s completely normal to feel your breathing get heavier and faster, especially if you’re not used to the exercise as your body has to work harder to keep the blood pumping to the right muscles.
As you get fitter, after even just a few runs, you’ll notice your breathing pattern improve.
HOW FAST SHOULD I BE GOING?
While feeling slightly out of breath is to be expected, use the tried and tested “talk test” to gauge if you’re running at the right speed. You should be able to hold a conversation while you’re running; when you can do that and maintain a comfortable distance you’ve found your ideal pace.
As you get fitter your pace will also speed up so regularly check in with the talk test to make sure you’re running at your optimum level.
SHOULD I RUN INSIDE OR OUTSIDE?
There are benefits to both running outside or inside on treadmill but usually it’s down to personal preference. Running inside on a treadmill offers a more cushioned ride and allows you to easily track your speed and distance, a more popular option if the weather is unappealing. Running outside allows you to enjoy the fresh air and the benefit of covering actual distance giving you a great feeling of achievement.
I'M FINDING RUNNING DIFFICULT - WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Don’t worry if you can’t run the whole time, striking a walk/run balance is a great way to build up your stamina and fitness.
Join us at one of our Run Clubs to give you the support and motivation you need to keep going. Find your nearest Run Club.
AFTER YOUR RUN
THE COOLDOWN
Sore legs in the hours and days after a run are completely normal but this will subside relatively quickly. Incorporating a stretching cool-down routine after a run is the best way to reduce stiffness and help prevent injury. Tight muscles are one of the biggest contributing factors to common running injuries such as shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and ITB Syndrome. Stretching these muscles post-run improves elasticity and the natural range of motion.
Foam rolling is a great way to stretch out your tired muscles after a run, as well as help, prevent running injuries. Get help on how to choose the best foam roller for you.
If you do start to feel pain, rather than soreness, you could be suffering from an acute injury. Don’t run until you’ve had it checked by your local GP or sports physio.
REFUELLING AND HYDRATION
After a run you should aim to re-hydrate within the first 10-15 minutes. Even if you don’t feel particularly hot and sweaty you still need to replace lost fluids.
Find more information on how to stay hydrated before, during, and after your run.
Once you’ve started hydrating you can begin to think about your post-run stretching routine and eating a snack. You want to aim for a small snack with a ratio of 4:1 carbohydrate to protein; a good example would be a slice of toast with peanut butter or a protein shake. Eating the right combination of carbohydrates and protein immediately after a run gives your body the fuel it needs to start the repair process to ensure a speedy recovery.
Have a running question you need answering? Head in store where our experienced and passionate runners are always happy to offer advice.
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