Learn How to Overcome These 5 Beginner Running Mistakes
When you start your running journey, it’s easy to get swept up in
excitement and push yourself too far too soon in an attempt to put more
miles under your belt. Beginner runners can often get burned out,
experience injuries, and lose motivation.
If you are new to
running and would like to become the best runner you can be, here are
five common mistakes beginner runners make and how to overcome them so
you can lace up your wide toe box running shoes and hit the road for years to come.
1. Ignoring Proper Running Form
Many runners don’t consider how
they’re running. Improving your running form can decrease your chances
of injury and make you a more efficient runner. Pay close attention to
see if your running form matches the tips below when you are out on your
next run.
- Keep your eyes up and your chin down so your head is neutral and you can gaze out straight ahead.
- Relax your shoulders and arms, but keep your core engaged.
- Take shorter strides and more frequent steps to avoid overstriding and ensure your upper body stays properly aligned over your legs.
2. Lacking Training Structure
If you are training for a race or want to improve your running stats,
mapping out a basic training plan by following a program or joining a
running club is an excellent way to reach your running goals. A proper
training plan will let you gradually increase your training load, add
longer and faster-paced runs, and schedule adequate recovery time to
continue putting more miles on your trusty pair of men’s or womens trail running shoes or road shoes, depending on where you like to run.
3. Skipping Cross Training
Cross-training is any form of exercise that complements your running goals, and it’s a practice that can make you a more well-rounded runner. To effectively cross-train, you can incorporate cycling, pilates, swimming, or yoga for at least one day throughout the week. In addition, hitting the gym for one to two strength training sessions to target your hips, glutes, and core can help you even out any imbalances you may develop from increasing your running frequency.
4. Running in Old Shoes
Typically, you should replace your foot shaped sneakers every 300 to 500 miles, but if your running shoes look worn or show signs of uneven wear on the soles, it’s best to start fresh with a new pair. Running in new shoes also decreases your risk of injury, which is a win-win scenario. Plus, choosing a new pair of running shoes is an excellent time to explore low drop shoes that you might prefer compared to conventional options.
5. Fueling Your Body Incorrectly
What you eat before and after your runs is important. Your pre-run snack should include carbs, such as toast with jelly. After you’ve cooled down from your run, you want to refuel your body within 45 to 60 minutes with a small snack or meal containing protein and carbs to kickstart recovery.
About Topo Athletic
From the very beginning, Topo Athletic has had one goal: to make running shoes you can count on day after day. Every pair of Topo Athletic shoes is designed with the brand’s signature roomy toe box, secure midfoot and heel, and low heel to toe drop. These features let your toes splay out in their natural position for optimized comfort and performance as you move through the gait cycle. Whether you enjoy running on city streets, on trails, or along a path at your favorite local park, lace up a pair of wide toe box running shoes from Topo Athletic. Check out their entire selection to embrace the journey with performance footwear that’s built to help you always stride for more.
Explore low drop shoes to kickstart your running journey at https://www.topoathletic.com/