Why Running Still Remains Tops and How To Become a Terrific Runner

Stage 1 - Getting Fit

Nobody’s body is naturally fit; you have to work your body towards it. If running (at least for 1 hour a day) is your end goal and you hardly ever exercise, you need to start off really slowly. Firstly you have got to warm up your body parts: ankles, calves, thighs, hips, waist - even your shoulders. You cannot start your workout without this because you have a huge chance of hurting your body. For the first week just start taking walks for an hour in the park. Follow this up the next week by walking at a much brisker pace - always keep a bottle of water nearby. By the third and fourth week start a very light jog with breaks in between where you stretch and walk. By the second month, you should be able to keep a steady jogging/running pace. You shouldn’t push yourself too much, just let your body get used to it, always remembering to warm up and cool down for a time of at least 10 minutes each.

Stage 2 - Eating Correctly

You want to make sure you eat right for your workout and consume something that gives you enough energy for the workout but also food that you can burn off and won’t put on weight. Remember, the wrong kind of food before a run can lead to headaches, dizziness and stomach cramps. The best food choices you can make is food with proteins, carbs, and healthy fats. Food choices such as:

Greek yogurt with nuts, fruit, and granola
Spinach and onion omelet with whole-wheat toast
Wrap filled with salmon, avocado, and mango
Chickpea and quinoa breakfast served with goji berries, almonds, and sunflower seeds
Fruit and nut oatmeal
Smoothie made with vegan protein (such as almond milk), fruit and vegetables or non-vegan option (replace almond milk with yogurt)
Peanut butter/Almond butter and jelly sandwich (rye bread/toast)

Stage 3 - Correct Gear

Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable. Clothes that are too tight are never a great option nor are clothes that are too loose. Stretch items are best, and there is a whole range of runners gear you can choose from. All the major sports brands provide such gear from Nike, Reebok, Puma, Adidas and more! It’s also essential to carry a nice big water bottle with you as you are going to sweat a lot and need hydration. There is also a range of different ways you can carry water around such as inside special waist belts as well as in hydration backpacks.

Running is quite simple for everyone. Start out small, give it a go, and there’s no limit to how far you can take it!