5 Tips Seasoned Runners Would Give to New Runners
If you’re at the start of a long journey, just remember: every expert was once a beginner. This can apply to anything in life that you want to try, including running. If you’re a new runner, use this mindset to embrace learning new skills, taking on new challenges, and making mistakes along the way. Running can be a rewarding activity on many levels, no matter where you are on your journey. Here are some tips to help you find your stride, and before you know it, you’ll have your own unique pieces of “advice” you can share with newbies.
1. Get a High-Quality Pair of Running Shoes
The one piece of gear you absolutely need to begin running is a pair of high-quality running shoes. You know your foot best, but if you’re looking for a shoe that doesn’t squeeze your toes together in the forefoot, you may want to consider wide toe box shoes because they allow your toes to align in their natural position. Another feature to look for is a low heel to toe drop because it encourages you to land on your midfoot, which is ideal for a proper gait cycle.
2. Warm Up and Cool Down
Whether you’re heading out for a few easy miles or running a planned track workout, it’s a good idea to do some dynamic stretches first, such as walking lunges and heel kicks. Dynamic stretching gets your body warmed up and ready to run. Static stretching can be better suited for after running because it will help lower your heart rate and set you up for the rest of your recovery routine. No matter how you approach these steps, stretching before and after your runs is an essential part of helping yourself become a better runner.
3. Mix Up the Scenery
Running the same route every day can quickly become boring, even if you
are a creature of habit. To keep things fresh, mix up your scenery and
terrain by exploring new trails, parks, neighborhoods, and even the
treadmill at the gym. If you have a running buddy, let them choose the
route so you can see their part of town or a trail you haven’t tried.
It’s often easiest to head out the door straight from your house for a
run, but it’s also a good thing to research other routes that can help
you avoid feeling burned out and start feeling excited for every run.
4. Enjoy Your Rest Days
When you’re new to running, you may feel like you won’t get faster
unless you run every day. But the reality is, your body needs time to
repair between sessions. Your muscles rebuild on your rest days, and
with proper rest, your body will be ready to go again on your next run.
Rest days are for relaxing or doing low-impact activities you enjoy.
Relax and go with the flow. This essential part of your running routine
is just as important as training days.
5. Fuel Properly Before, During, and After
Nutrition and hydration play a pivotal role in your running
performance. Eating balanced meals with carbohydrates, protein, and
healthy fats before a run provides the energy you need. Seasoned runners
suggest experimenting with mid-run snacks, like gels or chews, for
longer runs. The rule of thumb is usually when you start running over an
hour, you should start fueling! You’ll have to experiment with what
works best for your body. Post-run, focus on replenishing glycogen
stores with protein-rich meals to aid recovery.
From proper footwear, such as wide toe running shoes,
to relaxing on rest days, give yourself the care and consistency you
need to become a great runner. Years from now, these are the memories
you’ll look back on fondly.
About Topo Athletic
Whether
you enjoy running along the roads in your neighborhood, jogging through
your favorite local park, or exploring new trails at every opportunity
you get, stride for more with a sneaker with wide toe box
from Topo Athletic. Each pair of Topo Athletic shoes is designed with
their signature roomy toe box, secure midfoot and heel, and low heel to
toe drop. That’s The Topo Difference. By allowing your toes to splay out
in their natural position, you can experience enhanced performance and
comfort throughout the gait cycle. The result? Running shoes you can
count on every day. Browse their full selection of road and trail models
to discover the perfect pair of performance footwear to help you go
beyond the ordinary.
Enjoy your best runs yet with new shoes from Topo Athletic at https://www.topoathletic.com/
