Saturday, March 17, 2018

STARTING OUT AS A RUNNER











Hey y'all!

Today I am sharing a special Saturday post because the topic felt fitting to share on a Saturday. One of my favorite things to do on the weekend is to wake up early and go on a long run. Y'all probably know by now, but I am really big into running. For people who aren't runners this sounds crazy, but I want to say that I wasn't always a runner and today I wanted to share some of my tips to get into running if you were hoping to. Now that its warm, its a great workout and a way to spend time out in the sunshine and get a great workout in.

When I was in middle school, I ran cross country and track, but I had to stop after my freshman year of high school because I had really bad knees from growing too much too quickly. Unfortunately, knee issues still come and go for me but for the most part I still love and really enjoy running. Here are some of the tips that I practiced to enjoy it more!

1. Start out small.
If you want to really love running, you have to start out slow. Run a mile or two a few times a week until its not too difficult for you. If you start out by pushing yourself too hard, its going to be miserable. I know how it feels to push myself too hard and then you just get exhausted and its not fun anymore. A couple miles will only take you 15-20 minutes so its not a huge time commitment either!

2. Start slow.
Start with a really slow pace. Just jog really slowly because not only will trying to run too far kill your vibe, trying to run too fast will too! I am a slower runner naturally, so I also know how it feels to try to run too fast and then not have any energy left after/to finish out my run. You can always train for speed later on, but for starters just go slow. 

3. Motivate yourself with a deadline.
I am always really motivated by having a deadline. If I have to be in shape for a half marathon in a month and a half, I can push myself harder to make it happen. If I just want to "get faster" or "get in shape" its hard to measure and without a deadline, you are likely to just throw it out the window because its hard or boring. Start by signing up for a fun run or a 5K. Don't tell yourself you're going to run a crazy long race because likely then you won't enjoy it either. Find a happy medium of something you can push yourself at, but also something that is still going to be enjoyable. You can always work your way up to a bigger race!

4. Buy some cute workout gear.
For a lot of people, buying a cute outfit or a few workout pieces to motivate you and make you feel good while you work out is a great place to start. I love shopping at Target or Marshall's for workout gear because its really cute but not too expensive. Or if you love high end pieces like Lululemon, treat yourself to get some motivation!

5. Find a good distraction to do while running.
Ok, lets be real, sometimes running for long periods of time is just boring. For me, I am always thinking so its nice to have time that I can just think through everything thats floating through my head when I am not suppose to be working on something else. But, if just thinking sounds awful, make a fun playlist with upbeat music, listen to a podcast, or if you're running on a treadmill, watch Netflix! I usually run in the early mornings, so I often times listen to worship music and pray! Just find something that keeps your mind occupied so you aren't thinking about the run.

6. Give yourself grace!
Running is hard, and we all need grace! Give yourself time and don't push yourself too hard. Once you get into shape, I personally think it gets easier and more fun. I usually hate all other kinds of working out, so its pretty much the only fitness routine I do. 

7. Have the right shoes.
This is a huge thing in my opinion! It is always a good idea to get fitted for your first pair of running shoes. I don't know everything about running shoes but I did find a certain brand that I really love that support my joints/knees which is something I am always focused on. Not every sneaker is made for running, and some brands are okay for going to the gym, but are so bad for running. Its definitely a hobby you'll need to invest in a little, but its worth it to make sure you aren't harming your body!

8. Get a buddy.
I wasn't always into running with other people because I am slower than some, like Nate for example. He's also so much taller than me, but I would get so tired so quickly trying to keep up with him! But, if you can find a friend who is on a similar journey as you, or can run at your pace, this is a great idea! Between having someone to hold you accountable to getting out there and running, to having someone to talk to while you run -- or to just share in your pain ;) This is a great tip to get you going!

I hope you all enjoyed this post and got a little motivation to try out running or keep going with your fitness journey! Remember its always a marathon not a sprint ;) ok I had to. But really, you aren't going to get good at something difficult overnight so just keep at it y'all!

Have a great weekend! Today I am headed to Nebraska to a bridal shower that my sweet aunts are throwing for me. My mom is driving up and my bestie Megs is coming with me too so I am just so excited. This whole wedding process has showed me how many people really care about Nate and I and its just wonderful. I'm also excited about my outfit I'm wearing...#honestyhour so be sure to check out my Insta because I'm posting an OOTD there!

Also tonight after the shower I am heading back home and I can't wait to see my dogs and cuddle with them in my bed. No matter what, I always get the best sleep in my bed at my parent's house. I'm thinking that's going to be an issue because I won't really sleep there much after May...but its the little things that make life great right?! ha. 

Anyways enough rambling! Talk to you in Monday's post. I'm excited about next week's content so be sure to check back for more:)


1 comment:

  1. You looking great in this workout outfits. If you are thinking to buy womens athletic leggings Online then, get the workout clothes from the online store.

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