Running might seem as easy as putting your shoes on and going outside and just running. Yes, although this is exactly what running entails, to maintain longevity as a runner it is important to avoid these three running mistakes!
- Signing up for a race without actually following a running plan. I have made the mistake of signing up for a race without giving it much thought. The result? I finished the race, but my foot was very close to getting a long-term injury. I signed up to run 26.2 miles thinking that it would be an easy race because I was already weightlifting at the time and was running on the treadmill…(I did forget to think that running on the treadmill for 30 minutes a day is not the same as running 26.2 miles on pavement). It is CRUCIAL to think through the type of training plan you intend on following even before signing up for a race. Especially, a race that involves running more mileage than usual. Running on the treadmill and running on the pavement are two completely different things!
- Running in whatever shoes I found at the time. I remember running my first race in shoes that I had very little knowledge about. Let me tell you, this is not reason enough to buy such shoes. Good looking shoes will not help you when your feet are drained from all of the running. After making the mistake of picking shoes without much research, I made my way to a running store. It was here that they helped guide me to the right shoe for my foot. If you are looking to run seriously, go to a shoe store! They will recommend the best shoes for you and the best shoe for each runner is different. It is also recommended that you replace your running shoe every 300-400 miles that you run. Be sure to ask your local running store about this as well!
- Not drinking enough water. During my runs, I do not drink as much water as I should. I don’t realize the impact of this, but I have come to understand the importance of drinking water over the years. I have had issues when I have drank too much water and then issues when I have drank too little water. So, what is a good balance? Water is essential to our day-to-day living, only second after oxygen! The key to staying hydrated during the runs is to make sure you drink enough water before a run.
Running is not only about putting on your shoes and going outside for a run. Running requires you to constantly educate yourself on the habits to adapt to in order to avoid any injuries. Stay inspired!
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