SMILE!

When I first started running many years ago, I did not enjoy it because I wasn’t fit, nor had my body adapted to the general cardio requirements of running. As the months and the years passed, I could keep up with the run without feeling like I was out of shape, and it was the best feeling ever. Looking back at how far I have come in my running journey, I realize it all started with that first run I dreaded. At one point, I was a beginner runner, too. Trust me, I get how overwhelming it is to create a running routine and, on the way, be reminded of how out of shape you are as you stop every 5 minutes during the run. One of the many reasons I love running is that it doesn’t matter if you can run a mile, half a mile, or thirty miles. You are a runner. Being a runner is not dependent on your mileage or the mileage time. Being a runner depends on whether you put on your running shoes, open your front door, and go outside. So stop comparing yourself to other runners and focus on your running journey!
Firstly, let’s all agree that starting out as a new runner is difficult. The first step is to recognize the reasons why running can be difficult for a new runner:
1 – Running is a vigorous form of cardio. Your heart and lungs must work extra hard to take in enough oxygen to deliver it to the muscles working together (calves, quads, core, etc.). to make your run possible. This is particularly difficult when you are just starting with running as your body has yet to adapt to this level of aerobic workout. So, instead of reminding yourself how out of shape you are, change the inner dialogue to how much healthier you are becoming after every run.
2 – Running is a mental sport; your only competition is YOU. Your success lies in your dedication, consistency, and unwavering determination. I have always known how important mental strength is when running, but I only realized what that meant when I started running. Mental strength is the ability to keep running long after your mind has tried to talk you out of running an infinite amount of times.
3 – Running is undoubtedly a high-impact sport that requires a lot of physical exertion. When your foot hits the pavement, it can stress your joints tremendously, amounting to two to three times your body weight. This is especially essential when you are a beginner runner because you will need time to adapt to the high impact of running on your joints, muscles, and tendons.

Now that it is clear that running is, in fact, a challenge for many people who are starting to implement this form of cardio into their routine, let’s look at how to overcome these challenges:
1 – One step at a time. In wishing me luck before a race, a friend once told me to run the race one step at a time. I didn’t understand what this meant then, but it was apparent after the race. Looking at a race as a mile-by-mile experience changes your entire approach to the race. When you look at a race for what it is, the mind can adapt to the negative self-talk about how much mileage you have left to run. When it comes to your running routine, start by adding only a few miles to it every week. Remember that, like any other habit, running requires time. When starting to run, make sure you do not increase your mileage from one week to the next by more than 10%.
2 – Don’t compare your running journey to that of someone else. When starting your running journey, you will meet runners who have been running for a long time. Remember to never measure your step one with their step ten. As runners, we are all at different stages of running, and the only person you should be comparing yourself to is the runner you were yesterday. However, you can still learn a lot about running from other runners.
3 – Set goals. When I first started running, I thought it would be an excellent tool for helping me lose weight. Over time, running became much more meaningful to me than that. No matter what running stage you are in, it is essential to set goals. Not everyone runs because they love, but you are more likely to stay consistent when you set vital milestones that define your success.
Starting as a beginner runner may seem daunting and complex, but it is not impossible. It requires patience, dedication, and a positive mindset. Remember that running is a journey, and everyone’s journey is different. Focus on your progress, set achievable goals, and, most importantly, enjoy the process. Over time, you will find that running becomes easier, and the benefits to your physical and mental health are immeasurable. So, take that first step, lace up your running shoes, and start your running journey today!