Lacing up your running shoes and heading out for a daily jog isn’t for everyone. The same could probably be said for those that love sweating and stretching during a 45-minute hot yoga class.
But while running may not be “fun” in the traditional sense of the word, it does have a number of incredible benefits which includes boosting confidence, reducing stress and lowering blood pressure. Above all else, it’s just a really great way to get out, enjoy nature, and clear your head.
Keen to get in on the action but don’t know where to start? Here are a few ways you can learn to love running:
Don’t push yourself
One of the biggest mistakes newbie runners can make is sprinting right out the gate. If you’ve never created a consistent running routine, the chances of you running for one hour straight is probably zero, however, some runners feel that “pushing through the pain” is something that they need to do even when their body says “stop.” The best advice? Listen to your body and try and incorporate walk breaks into your running routine. One minute of easy running between longer walk breaks should help ease you into a consistent running regimen.
Do what feels good
Your love or hate for running likely blossomed during P.E class when you were forced to run as long and fast as you could. Now that you won’t be graded for how fast you’re going, why not choose to run in a way that feels good to you? A tip is to run slow enough to carry on a conversation, this is the trick people who run ultramarathons often use!
Create an experience you love
The only way you’re going to love running is by creating an experience that’s unique to you and that you love. If you enjoy blasting your favourite podcast while going for an easy 30-minute jog, then do that. There are so many benefits to being in Mother Nature, so why not embrace her beauty by trying out a few trails, Cape Town has so many to choose from.
Have a goal
While running to get or keep fit is always encouraged, sometimes it helps to have a goal to train for, especially when creating a habit. Signing up for a 5k or 10k “race” may be just the kick you need to ensure you stay consistent. Now, the word race can be quite misleading, but essentially it can be anything from the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon to mud runs – anything that screams “fun” to you.
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