7 Tips for Getting Into Running This Year

Running is certainly just one of the best ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle and increase your overall fitness, especially if you have dreams of taking part in events like triathlons that involve swimming, cycling, and running. 

If you are new to running, you might find the thought of taking up the hobby quite intimidating and not know where to start. However, there are a few simple steps you can take to get your new running journey off to a great start. 

In this article, discover top tips for getting into running this year, plus everything it takes to compete as part of a triathlon!

Tips for Starting Your Running Journey

If you are a beginner at running, it’s important not to push yourself too hard too soon, as not only could this demotivate you but also cause injury. There are certain steps you can take to not only give you the inspiration to start running but also keep up your motivation to work towards your triathlon goals. Read on below for the best top tips for starting a new running journey.

1. Set Achievable Goals

It’s important when starting out running that you set achievable goals for yourself. Whether as part of a training plan or time-based distance goals, setting goals helps you avoid getting disappointed and unmotivated and giving up too early on. Any new runner should start slow and be realistic with their expectations. 

Set yourself small, achievable goals that you can slowly build up and increase as time goes on. For example, in your first week, you could set a goal of running for 2 minutes without stopping and then gradually increase this as time goes on.

2. Download a Running App

The best way to boost your motivation to start running is by downloading a running app. These handy applications are the perfect support to help build up your running endurance in a healthy way, and allow you to set goals and keep on track. 

There are countless options to choose from, but some of the best running apps include Couch to 5k, Nike Running App, Strava, and more. Training apps are the perfect resource for beginner runners who aren’t sure where to start and need a little guidance.

3. Run with a Friend

If the loneliness of solo running is putting you off from starting your fitness journey, why not take up the task with a close friend or family member? Not only does it give you another opportunity to socialize, but you can also help motivate each other and act as a person of accountability to keep on track with goals.

4. Join a Local Running Group

If you want to socialize even more as a beginner runner you could consider joining a running group. These are small collectives of runners who meet up on a regular basis to run as a community. This is a great way to meet fellow new runners and also make friends. 

If you’re a beginner runner, make sure to find a group that is either targeted at new runners or able to cater to all fitness levels. You don’t want to join an experienced group as you will find it hard to keep up and potentially be put off continuing.

5. Invest in New Running Gear

There’s nothing that will inspire you to start your running journey more this year than investing in some new running attire and equipment. Sometimes to feel like the part, you have to dress like the part. When buying your new gear, like running shoes or apparel, you can feel more confident to start your running journey and smash through all of your goals.

6. Plan Scenic Locations for your Runs

One of the easiest ways to get excited about starting running is to plan out some great locations for your runs. While it can be more convenient to use a gym treadmill, nothing beats getting out into the great outdoors and running alongside stunning views. 

Not only does mixing up your location stop you from getting bored, but it also varies the terrain which will keep pushing your endurance and allow you to set higher goals. Research some scenic locations or popular running spots near you to plan out a route that will give you a good run and also is enjoyable.

7. Considering Running a Triathlon?

If you are a beginner runner, you may want to take up the hobby with the hopes of someday competing in a triathlon. Competing in a triathlon takes a significant amount of dedicated time to training, not only in running but also in swimming and cycling. This is alongside a peak level of health and fitness. 

It is recommended that you begin training for the event a minimum of 12 weeks beforehand, however for those who have never completed a triathlon or maybe new runners we suggest 16 weeks. This depends on the triathlon distance you’re aiming to race. Most beginners will start with a Sprint or Olympic distance triathlon. 

Many professional runners can often gain the ability to become a pro at other sports such as swimming and cycling, but if you’re a beginner looking for ways to get involved without getting active, there are many ways you can do so.

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