Running: How to Get Started

Believe it or not, running can be a lifesaver in a number of ways. Not only will it help you get into shape and lose weight, but running will also help you improve your overall health. Plus, you’ll be a lot happier when you are in shape and healthier, all of which can be gained through a little bit of sports and fitness. If you haven’t incorporated running into your lifestyle yet, then you are truly missing out. However, it isn’t something that you’ll be able to do perfectly overnight, as it will take time to build up your momentum. And don’t expect to be able to join in on the 5K this month because you need to build your endurance before you tackle something like that.

The Need to Ease Into Running

Start of a race track (running)

If you’ve tried running before and didn’t succeed, why do you think that is? For most individuals, it is because they started too fast. They tried to run full-speed ahead without ever trying to slow it down and take it easy. By doing this, running quickly became a turn-off and was put on the back burner. Impatience may get the best of you in times like these (building up to running fast), but it is better for you and your body overall if you wait it out and not try to do too much at one time – especially early in the game

Start by Walking and Jogging NOT Running
You don’t want to start off running – this is where most people make their very first mistake. You want to start by jogging and walking. By doing this, you are strengthening your bones and getting your body into shape. This is all so that you can actually tackle running without feeling as if you need to fall over and pass out.

Time Yourself
You will want to start with a brisk warm up walk that usually lasts for about five minute, then want to alternate periods of jogging and walking. It’s usually best to start off with the same amount of time – jog for two, walk for two. As you progress, you can start to increase the time that you jog and decrease the amount of time that you walk; however, do not eliminate walking for several weeks at which time you will be able to handle a warm-up and a straight run.

It’s time for you to take control of your life. If you want sculpted quads and a flat, ripped abdomen, running is your ticket to all that and much more. Start with a combination of walking and running, as outlined above, and work your way into just running. This is the best way to build yourself up for participating in any type of outdoor recreation, such as hiking.

Read about some of the running trails around U.S. Army Garrison Stuttgart installations, click here.