My favorite thing about blogging is getting to hear from you guys.  After my last half marathon, so many of you reached out saying it inspired you to take up running or to sign up for a race! Finding running has been so positive for me.  (Not saying I wake up every morning and can’t wait to run, but I’ve never finished and regretted it.)  An early trip to Starbucks also helps with the motivation lol.

I’m definitely not an expert, but here are a few things that have made running a little easier for me…

1. Work your way up:

When I started, I could barley run a mile!  Don’t be intimidated with a large number ahead. You can work your way up by running half a mile then walking half a mile until your body gets used to running.

The first time I ran I got horrible side stitches, but decided to stick with it until eventually the cramps went away and I could slowly ease in to running farther and faster.  I didn’t just go out one day and run 5 miles.  I started with half a mile then 1 mile and worked my way up until I didn’t need to take a walk break.

  I had always wanted to be ‘a runner.’  Now I find running so therapeutic and it makes me really happy.  Runners high is definitely a real thing.

2. Make a schedule:

You can schedule running distances on your calendar just like you would a meeting or you can say I run Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Whatever works best for you!

Scheduling my workouts on the calendar is the only way to keep me on track.  Knowing exactly what I’m going to do that day before heading out is important. If I just had “run” written down on my calendar, I would probably just go out and stop after two miles. If I have run 5 miles Tuesday, 4 miles Thursday and 10 miles Saturday, I will actually stick with it.

3. Find the proper shoe for you:

Right now I’m alternating between Nike and Hoka for long runs, but it took several types for me to find the right pair. Try going to a running shoe store (In Dallas Luke’s Locker is great!) and they can help you find a good shoe for you that fits right.

4. Think small:

Once you start running long distances, break the run down in your head.  When I run 10 miles, I think of it as 4 2.5 mile runs.

5. Find a trail you enjoy:

I normally run on the Katy Trail because every quarter mile is marked and it is close to my apartment.  When traveling, you can usually find a good path online.  In New York, we ran two loops in central park and it was so beautiful!

6. Make a great playlist:

Music helps me run so much faster. 

7. Get the right gear:

I love running with my apple watch, these headphones and put my phone and energy chews in this lightweight belt pack.

8. Read up

Doing research on the topic always helps! I am constantly learning more by asking other runners and trainers for tips and also love reading Women’s Health, Shape Magazine and Runner’s World.  Here are my favorite running books as well.  Following other runners on Instagram is really inspiring too

9. Relax and enjoy it:

I used to get so nervous before a long run, but now I try to remember to just relax, breath, think about my form and enjoy the ride! At the end of the day, you want to live a long life where you are doing things you love and encouraging others along the way.  For me that is taking Pilates classes, meeting a friend for a long walk and running outdoors with a great playlist.

Photo by Mary Summers