Have you ever wanted to give running a shot but you’ve always felt that you’re just not cut out for it? Let me tell you something, running can be the most freeing sport you can get involved in. And, you also don’t have to run competitively if you don’t want to. As a professional runner, I’ve got years of experience and know how difficult it can be to get started.

In this post I will share my top tips on how to get your running shoes on and hit the road. Keep in mind that it is a process, but if you follow my steps, you should soon find your feet. Let’s get started!

Spring into Action

If you’ve always wanted to give it a try, there really is nothing holding you back but yourself. The quickest way to get started is to do just that. No use in sitting and planning and using your time as an excuse. Make the time, and just do it! All it takes is 20 minutes a day.

Alternate Between Running and Walking

You are not going to be able to run a marathon after the first week, or even month, if you don’t follow a tried and trusted training method. While on your 20-minute run, take a break when you can’t push yourself and walk for a minute or two. Following this technique will strengthen your endurance.

Get Down with Basics

In order to make the most of your new routine, you’ll need to follow simple methods and techniques. You have to warm up before every run, and do recovery stretches afterwards too. This will ensure your muscles remain supple and your form improves gradually over time.

Mix it Up

If you are one of those people who easily give up or feel that it’s no use in continuing, consider alternating your routes. New routes and environments make for the perfect motivation when you need that extra boost to keep you going.

Watch Your Progress

Continue with the 20-minute run until you can run the entire distance without walking once. This means you should be able to breathe easily and feel comfortable enough to take things to the next level. Once you have reached this point, either increase your tempo, or the length of your runs.

Keep at It

I’ll be honest with you, it’s not going to be easy. You do get your good days and your bad days. One day you may run a distance in the shortest time you’ve had, and the very next day you cannot make it at all. The key is to persevere and keep at it, don’t give up!

And that’s all of them! I wish you all the best in starting out running. Let me know if my tips helped you out. If you would like to make a difference in someone else’s life, consider getting involved in Free to Run or Right to Play.