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I agree w/ ogre. and keep in mind there is no 'one size fits all.' For many years I was strictly a fitness jogger, just running long about once every 3 days and nothing else. Last 5 years or so I have entered some races and started doing speedwork (as suggested by Garfunkle), and enjoyed it greatly. It's something to consider trying if you find yourself on a plateau and feel your interest flagging.
If you eventually decide to go that route, I suggest a subscription to Running Times a great mag.
Thank you! I'll find a speciality store (not one nearby, but that's ok, I'm within driving range of tons of shopping areas- a blessing of living in Pittsburgh) and get fitted for a solid pair of shoes. And notes definitely taken on everything else.... Im not too fond of puking (yikes!) so that'll be a sign that I'm done for the day... lol
I didn't go out last night, I was rather sore from my first run and these shoes are just plain awful, will be upgrading them this weekend
I agree w/ ogre. and keep in mind there is no 'one size fits all.' For many years I was strictly a fitness jogger, just running long about once every 3 days and nothing else. Last 5 years or so I have entered some races and started doing speedwork (as suggested by Garfunkle), and enjoyed it greatly. It's something to consider trying if you find yourself on a plateau and feel your interest flagging.
I guess I should've clarified the importance of scaling your workout in my post. Honestly I always had a hard time running for more than 30 minutes, so I like doing those intervals to get a better workout in that time. They were a great fit for me.
Definitely get good running shoes or you could cause serious injury. Also DO NOT run every day as another poster suggested. You want to cross train so you don't injur yourself.
You can add in biking, swimming or even walking. It is very important to not overwork the same muscles, and it will help you become a better runner.
Focus on your core. You may not realize it, but your core is a big part of running. Do both abs and your back. Planks are a great exercise.
You also want to strenghten your hamstrings. Do intervals, both speed and on hills. This will increase your speed, endurance, and help you lose weight!!
Thank you! I'll find a speciality store (not one nearby, but that's ok, I'm within driving range of tons of shopping areas- a blessing of living in Pittsburgh) and get fitted for a solid pair of shoes. And notes definitely taken on everything else.... Im not too fond of puking (yikes!) so that'll be a sign that I'm done for the day... lol
I didn't go out last night, I was rather sore from my first run and these shoes are just plain awful, will be upgrading them this weekend
Elite Runners and Walkers in Robinson is the best specialty running store in your area.
I've been a serious runner since the age of 15. I never alter my advice to new runners:
1. Find out the pronation of your feet and buy a GOOD running shoe which caters to your pronation style (you can Google this to find out how to do it-- takes 5 seconds). Make sure the shoes are properly fitted. Too many people wear running shoes that are too small. Your feet expand with exercise, so if you wear a size 10 street shoe, get a size 10.5 running shoe.
2. Absolutely do NOT care about distance or become a slave to the watch. Just run until you're out of breath and then walk. Then run again, then walk. Your fitness will improve and gradually you will be able to run longer with fewer walking breaks.
3. Increase your time and distance very gradually. Don't set ridiculously lofty goals like "I'll run a marathon in 3 months." Be patient.
4. Take days off. Do not run every day.
After 6 weeks of slowly increasing your ability and fitness, then you can start setting goal of distance. The main reason beginners need to start slowly is to reduce/eliminate the possibility of injury. And I will practically guarantee you, you will get injured and stop running if you try to do too much, too soon. Good luck!
You already received great advice here, but one thing people skipped over was perhaps one of the more simple things. Don't forget to stretch really good before and after you run. It'll save your legs and muscles.
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