Hello!

If you’re working on your Summer body, high-intensity exercises such as running, are some of the most efficient ways to lose weight or keep fit.

Running stimulates the after-burn effect, meaning, even when you’re sitting down hours after your run, you’re burning more calories than you would be if you took part in low-intensity exercises.

If running is something you’ve always wanted to partake in, but have never known where to start, the following advice is sure to motivate you and set you on the path of success.

  1. Get the right shoes.

    You only need one piece of equipment for running, so make sure you get it right. Being a high impact sport, you really want to invest in good shoes that are going to provide you with the right level of cushioning to protect your feet and joints. Specialty footwear stores can provide expert advice, and even the technology, to match your needs with the right shoes from the get go. Believe me, your body will thank you for it!

  2. Warm up.

    Before starting any exercise, it’s important to prepare your body for 3-4 minutes by gradually raising the heart rate and circulation, loosening the joints and increasing blood flow to the muscles. An easy exercise I like to start with is the walking lunge. Simply step forward, drop the right knee towards the floor, then rotate your torso a half turn to the right. Then repeat on alternate sides. After 8-10 reps should warm the body nicely. Top if off with a quick stretch to help prevent injury.

  3. Set realistic goals.

    It’s important to set goals inline with your current level of fitness, adjusting as you progress. Start out walking to condition your body for what’s to come, focusing on distance over speed. Then use landmarks to set yourself goals; start by running to the first post, followed by walking for the next two, and repeat until it gets easy. Be sure to reset your goals. Eventually, your goal should be to run more than you walk!

  4. Seek external motivation.

    Motivation and accountability are the two key elements that will help you to stay committed to your new fitness regime, so joining a running group or club with like-minded people will help you keep on track to achieving your goals. A quick internet search should turn up plenty of local options. Another way great to stay motivated is by signing up for a fun run six or so months down the track.

  5. Don’t forget to stretch.

    As simple as it sounds, stretching is crucial to any workout routine. For running, it’s important to make sure you stretch your hamstrings, calf muscles and quadriceps after every session.

  6. Enjoy yourself.

    The key to consistency is fun. Take rest days, run different routes and run with different people to keep it interesting. And don’t forget to reward yourself for progress! Happy running and remember the only real competition is you!

We may get commissions for purchases made using links in this post. Learn more.
  • Everyone has to start somewhere, the hardest part is starting

    Reply

  • Even start by walks and do.short little runs within that. Anything to get you started. Progress is progress ????????❤

    Reply

  • My son loves bike riding and is wanting to start going on regular rides. I feel like this is a great way to connect as a family, enjoy the great outdoors and get a bit of exercise in as well.

    Reply

  • I finally incorporated running into my schedule. I was doing 40 mins a day for months and months and months. It never got easier, my motivation still lacked and I never got to enjoy it. It was always a chore! Due to injury I’ve had to have a rest from running, not in a hurry to return either

    Reply

  • My husband ticks all these boxes, but I can’t come to it at the moment.

    Reply

  • Oh to find the energy to start!


    • Start small and work way up – little steps at first. Good Luck! :)

    Reply

  • The right shoes so make a difference!

    Reply

  • I’d like to see an actual daily schedule for a week or month on how to go from zero to running.

    Reply

  • I walk but I’d need new knees if I wanted to take up running.

    Reply

  • Definitely get the right shoes for walking or running – just have to have the right shoes – your feet and posture will thank you!

    Reply

Post a comment
Add a photo
Your MoM account


Lost your password?

Enter your email and a password below to post your comment and join MoM:

You May Like

Loading…

Looks like this may be blocked by your browser or content filtering.

↥ Back to top

Thanks For Your Star Rating!

Would you like to add a written rating or just a star rating?

Write A Rating Just A Star Rating
Join