LOSE WEIGHT, GET FIT, FEEL GREAT…
The hardest part about running…
…is getting started. We all have a question about running. Some of us have more than one. The only way to get started and to keep going is to get answers for our questions. Here are the ones I’m most frequently asked by friends and business associates. Chances are that you’ll want to read one or more to get you in the mood to get out there!
Isn’t it true that some people (like me) are just not natural runners?
I’ve never been sure what people mean by a “natural” runner. Some find running easier than others, but we can all do it if we find our level. I can help you find your own level and get started!
For most people, there is no genuine reason why they can’t run. If your doctor forbids you, then fair enough. For the rest of us, the truth is that we don’t start because:
- We think it’s too hard
- We feel we’re too far gone in terms of fitness
- We never enjoyed it when we were younger
If you think it’s too hard, then a sensible plan is what you need. It won’t be too hard if you take your time and build slowly. Much more slowly that you think! If you think you’re too unfit, then think again. Ask your doctor about taking up running. They will probably say that it would be a good idea, as long as you start slowly.
How far do I have to run? How long should my runs be?
We all get obsessed by distances and times. That’s fine when we’re established runners, but when we’re starting out, we need to think differently. Our body needs time to adjust to running and so, to begin with, we shouldn’t do that much running at all. Following a carefully built programme will help us to stay on track without pushing too hard too soon. The great thing is that, as beginners, we begin to feel a lot of benefit after a relatively small amount of effort! Once we’re fully up and running (which can be several months) we can start looking at times and distances in more detail.
