Do you want to give running a shot, but you are confused on where to start? Fret no more…we have got you covered with our easy-to-follow tips on starting your wellbeing journey.
Running is one of the world’s most enjoyed training exercise. Apart from being a top way to better your fitness routine, running has also been proved to be one of the best ways to improve your mental health and wellbeing.
However, we understand, that for those new to the sport, it can be quite nerve-wrecking to start, especially if you are a beginner in fitness. We are here to go over some key foundations that you should address before deciding to start running.
Learn to Love the Process
The first step might be the hardest of them all. If you are not a born runner, it might be difficult to learn how to enjoy the process. If you are doing it right, running does not have to be boring, and it definitely should not hurt! You might decide to listen to your favourite music or listen to a recent podcast while you are on your daily run. Whatever your choice in audio – it will surely help in keeping your mind occupied while your body is doing all the work in the run.
It’s Ok to Walk First
No toddler started walking before crawling and neither should you when attempting to run for the first time. If this is your first run, it is ok to walk first. There is no one chasing you on your fitness journey. As your body starts to adjust to the new cardio pace, you can then start to proceed to a slow jog and, from there, up your level and quicken your pace as your comfort level increases.
Leave Your Stretching for After the Run
This might sound a bit counter-intuitive but, we suggest, to stretch after your run and never before. Stretching before running might increase your risk of injury and reduce your performance. To warm up your muscles before your run, it is better to start off with a fast-paced walk or some strength training at the gym.
The Treadmill will Help
If you are new to the fitness routine, running on a treadmill can be beneficial as it will help you experiment with different speeds before running on a track or outside. By giving running a trial run on a treadmill, you will also get a feel of how you like to run.
Nutrition is Key
On your journey of wellbeing, nutrition is key. Make sure that you are fuelling your body with nutritious food if you have recently started running. While you are on your run, you will be using significantly more energy and your muscles are working more than usual. Make sure that you are eating enough protein, complex carbohydrates, and fibre to help your muscles heal and grow stronger with each run.
Keep a Realistic Mindset
If you are running to lose weight, remember, that you will not see a considerable difference in the first couple of weeks. However, that does not mean that you are not progressing. The number on the scales is not always significant to your progress. You can measure your progress by your speed and/or time improvement when running. Most of the positive effects of running start with seeing improvement in your mental health. Be patient with yourself and give your body time to adapt to a new exercise routine.
Mix Up Your Training Routine
On the days in which you are not running, try strength or weight training. This will also reduce your risk of injury and can prepare your body for an easier and more enjoyable running experience. A good way to include strength training is to slot a time of fifteen minutes after every run.
This is your time to shine! Start your running journey today to improve your fitness journey, both physically and mentally. Grab your headphones or find a running buddy and RUN!
If you need more inspiration and/or advise, do not hesitate to contact us at Mariano Club. We will help you get there!
Mariano.
Facebook Messenger: MF Club Messenger
Instagram: @Mariano.club
Whatsapp: Click here
Email: info@mariano.club
Phone number: +356 7704 0747
Facebook Page: Mariano Farrugia Health and Fitness Club Twitter: mariano.club Linkedin: Mariano Farrugia
#mindfulness #mentalhealth #wellbeing #fitness #weightloss #fatloss #goals #tips #balance #health #food #workout