Start Running

Are you considering taking up running? Do you hate the idea but wish you could motivate yourself to start? We know it’s not an easy hobby to begin, but with time and the right encouragement, that 10k you’ve dreamt about completing may not seem so daunting!

1. Make a plan

Where you will run, the playlist that will motivate you, a reward for afterwards. If you plan things smaller things in advance, you can away some of the pressure you face before leaving the house to start your run. Essentially, you can stop thinking about it and just do it!

2. Set a time

It doesn't matter if you're a morning person or an evening person, just make sure you schedule a time to run. Whether it's a weekly thing or something you do every few days, choose what feels right for you. Just be sure to stick to it. Think of it like an important meeting, once you’ve arranged a time, be sure to attend!

3. Reward yourself

By rewarding yourself after exercise, you help your brain associate exercise as a positive experience, and who doesn’t want that. Time in the sauna maybe?

4. Warm up and cool down

Be sure to prepare your muscles before you run, then help them cool down afterwards. This is an important step as it reduces that horrid what-happened-to-my-legs feeling the next day. It also reduces the chance of injury or muscle strain! Try quick walking, marching on the spot, knee lifts and side stepping before you leave the house.

5. Enlist a friend

Exercise is always easier with a buddy. Encourage a friend to join your run and choose a location that’s easy for both of you. Then, if one of you is lacking motivation, the other can help out. You can also track each other’s process, which might help you notice how far you’ve come along.