Running was always one of my favorite activities. I ran track in middle school and high school, but I was a sprinter. Running fast was a talent, a skill that I’d sort of gotten a “big-head” about when I was younger. My biggest influence was Jackie Joyner-Kersee. I had posters of her in my room and just wanted to make it to the Olympics just like her. I always loved sprinting, but loathed entirely running for than one lap for a warm-up. I’d complain up and down, left and right that I was tired and my legs hurt if I had to run around that track more than once during practice. It was quite funny though, because my coach would only tack on more laps if I kept complaining. My team wasn’t too happy with me on those days.

Now, I run about 3-4 (sometimes 5) miles a day. I’ve completed the Disney Marathon and various other races and I have actually come to love running as a form of exercise.

So…how did I become a “runner”? In a nutshell, I needed a way to release the stress that usually accumulates when one becomes a college student. But also, mentally, running long distances had taken my mind hostage in fear and doubt. I was thinking that I couldn’t possibly run a whole mile non-stop without passing out. I couldn’t possibly compete or complete any type of 5K or other race. I couldn’t possibly get out and run with other people because they’d run “better” than me. Weird, right? I know!

What made me change my mind was the fact that I didn’t want fear to stop me from doing something. Anything. Including running for a longer distance than a 100-yard dash. So, I partnered up with a friend and we went running one day. We ran in intervals. We’d run for a certain amount of time, then walk for a shorter amount, repeating this pattern until we completed a set time limit. We took it slow and talked while we were running/walking. Before I knew it, I’d run more than a mile. It was extremely hard and my legs felt like rubber. My chest was burning and I guzzled a water bottle like it was my last meal. But, the satisfaction and mental freedom I got, knowing I’d done something I was always afraid of doing was worth every pain.

My progress was slow and I didn’t become this experienced runner overnight. There were (and still are) plenty of times when I dig back into that old mindset of: I can’t do this. Forget it, this is not for me. I’m crazy for even trying. But what’s the point? Dwelling on those thoughts will get me no where and stunt my progress. So, I press forward past the soreness, pain, fatigue, and intimidation and just RUN.

So…How do YOU become a runner or begin a running regimen?
Here are 5 simple steps:

1. Get a good pair of running shoes. Shoes are SO important when it involves running. The best thing to do is to get your feet measured and determine your gait (or the way your foot hits the ground). You want the best shoe for comfort but also a shoe that will support your back and limbs. The best place to get a good recommendation for shoes is usually a running store. You don’t have to dish out hundreds of dollars on your first pair, but just get a good pair that’s made especially for running.

2. Begin with running/walking intervals. As a beginner, you should always begin with walking for a warm-up and then progress into the running. Set it up so that you run for a few minutes and then walk for a few minutes. A good beginner interval is 2 minutes running and 1 minute walking. That way you don’t push yourself too hard too fast and lose steam or get discouraged.

3. Make sure you run/walk at least 3 times a week. That way, you’ll benefit more from the exercise. But, don’t run if you don’t feel well. Also, for the first 2 months, try not to run 2 days in row. Give your muscles and tendons a rest and a chance to get used to the running.

4. Be patient with yourself! Don’t start off too fast, too soon. Set a realistic goal for yourself and work towards it for every run. If you don’t meet it, keep trying! Running is all about patience and getting over mind barriers.

5. Find a great friend to run with! Running is always easier when you can get into it with someone who’s like-minded and can help you push yourself. It’s also helpful to test out your speed by how well you can hold a conversation while running without being too out of breath. Sounds impossible, but it works and it helps!

Step 5 is where RenewedFitness comes in…

Announcing…

Tuesday Re-Runs: Training Runs for Beginners (and anyone else who’d like to join us!)

Every Tuesday at 6:30pm at North Ave. Beach. We’ll meet in front of Castaways restaurant. Just come on out!

The first run will be this coming Tuesday, August 10th.

These runs are for anyone looking to begin a running regimen and want a little help doing so. It’s always so much more fun and encouraging when you run with a group. So, RenewedFitness will be out there each and every Tuesday (weather permitting) ready to run. We’ll be out there for about 45 minutes to an hour.

Wear running shoes, comfortable and breathable clothing and water or a sports drink for hydration. Also, bring any questions you may have about running. I’d be glad to answer them!

So, come on out Chicago! Be Renewed!