Get back into running.

To my fellow runners who need some pick up and go. You can GO.

Running is a hobby where one minute we can mentally find ourselves at the top of a mountain and then in reality, we’re passed out on the pavement attempting to dial 911 (I’ve been there). It’s a hobby where you can release your stress, improve your heart, and strengthen your self-confidence. It’s a hobby where you are in full control.

Scheduling our everyday lives around a hobby where one is in full control is where running gets tough. Meetings that last until dark, being at work by 7a.m., taking paperwork home with you, family or friends wanting to catch dinner, house being a wreck, errands and more errands; it never ends. Running in my opinion is the hardest hobby to moderate.

So with that being said..let’s talk on how to incorporate running back into your schedule. Is this going to be easy?No, but it’s more about how much do you need to release tension, build your esteem, and cleanse your mind.

First,

accountability. Find something that you know will push you to complete the distance. For me, I have two balls of energy waiting to bust loose once I’m home. I can hold up a leash and they go wild. You can find accountability in

• running apps (I use mapmyrun)
• music playlists
• friends/ family/ spouses
• calendars
• dogs

There are even websites now where you can find other people who are interested in the same hobbies as you.

Second,

persistence. It does not matter if you complete only a quarter of a mile. YOU DID IT. Set a time or goal for yourself to complete. Do not tell yourself that you are going to knock out two miles in fifteen minutes if your feet have not hit the pavement in awhile. This is a hobby that requires one to build in increments. To put into perspective, take ten minutes out of six days to jog; that’s one hour that you have accomplished.

Another good technique for building stamina is to choose say 3-5 minutes at a time, then spend 3 minutes jogging/ 2 minutes walking/ 3 minutes jogging/ 2 minutes walking. Repeat this pattern as needed.

Third,

hydration. If you are not giving your body the fluids that it needs, then you won’t be going anywhere. Your body needs and yearns for high quality H2O. If you are not giving your body enough water, then you will not have the energy to complete a run. Running cleanses your mind, while water cleanses your body. Drink water.

Fourth,

stretch it out. I am guilty of not stretching like I should, but it really pays off to stretch. Your muscles will loosen and help you not be stiff/ sore the next day. There are some excellent YouTube videos demonstrating yoga moves to practice after a run. Take the two to five minutes to stretch out your body. Your back and legs will thank you.

Fifth,

nutrients. Ask yourself, what you are putting into your body. Are these nutrients to build your stamina, decrease cramps, and burn unwanted fat? You are looking for foods that will quickly restore your body. Foods that will increase your mood, stamina, and build your immune system. Here are a few food ideas: 

Before you run: Bananas Piece of Multigrain Toast Nuts/ Almonds Berries Peanut Butter Granola Dried Fruit Lettuce

After you run: Oatmeal Grilled Chicken Hummus Apples Greek Yogurt w/ Granola Fish Boiled Eggs Vegetables Sweet Potato Fruit Smoothie

Sixth,

kicks. This was probably the hardest thing for me; having to give up $20 sneakers for $80 running shoes. If you decide to take on running as a hobby, then be smart about your shoes. Give your body support and comfort by biting the bullet on a pair of running shoes. My favorite brand of running shoes is Brooks. They cost a pretty penny ($70-$160) but the comfort and longevity of the shoe pays off. Some of my girlfriends prefer ASICS or Mizunos. All three in my opinion are great brands and will support your sole. Remember that your feet are carrying you so be kind to them and give them support as they work for you.

Seventh,

enjoy. Like I said, this is a hobby for YOU. Don’t fret if you’re still only running eight minutes per day and you have reached week four. It’s all about you and your pace.

Two important rules: 1) Don’t compare yourself. 2) Don’t judge yourself.

This is a hobby for your enjoyment so make sure that you are taking in sights, finding your breath, clearing your mind, and listening to what is right for your body. Running is just another adventure.

Eighth,

    plan ahead. If you really want to get yourself back in the groove, then register yourself for a 5K in the next few months. If you register and pay ahead for a 5K, especially a charitable cause, then you are more likely to slide on your kicks and pick up your pace. Do not tell yourself that you are not good enough or fast enough or in enough shape for a 5K. You are. You might finish that 5K where you feel like your lungs are collapsing, legs trembling, feet aching, body so heavy, but YOU FINISHED IT. Beware..it becomes addicting.