Running is one of those sports that seems to have a simultaneously high and low barrier to entry. On one hand, it’s something anyone can theoretically do anywhere outdoors with nothing but some decent shoes. But on the other hand, for most of us, it takes time to learn to love it. So here are some tips to help you fall in love with running.
Don’t Push Yourself
When you’re first starting out, it’s tempting to try to give it your all and see how hard you can push yourself. But that’s a really difficult practice to stick with and you may find yourself dreading the soreness and shortness of breath. Instead, start by going easy and just getting used to the motion. One way to do this is to try to take short, quick steps rather than long strides. This will help you get lighter on your feet and get your body used to the necessary motions.
Don’t Overdo It
You also don’t need to overdo your endurance. Rather than running straight for as long as you can, try switching between 30 seconds of running and a minute of walking. Then increase your running time by 30 seconds as you get more comfortable. This is one of the ways marathon runners work on their endurance.
Combine it With Catharsis
Running is a great time for mental self-care because it’s a very individual sport. That might mean listening to music or a podcast that brings you joy, doing meditation, or even mentally processing any big life events. It’s also a healthy way to blow off steam!
