Anyone Can Run!

I’ve always heard that running can help my fitness but I don’t know how to get started. Can you help?

This is really a common question. Many people are intimidated at the thought of running. They think, “I’m not a runner” and without knowing how to get started, they just never go for that first run.

I like to have people start with running for time rather than distance. The thought of running a mile or more seems so daunting to most people that it’s counterproductive to the mental aspect of building a running base. Using time as your measure allows you to have structure that doesn’t feel like pressure.

Try this: Put on your running shoes*, set the timer on your watch or phone and head out. At first you should plan to do a combination of running and walking. Try running for about a minute then walking for about a minute or you can use landmarks, telling yourself, “I’m going to run to that street light up a head” or to the curve in the road or any other spot you feel that you can make it to. Head away from your starting point for 10 minutes then turn around and head back. It’s that simple.

Do this 20 minute run/walk 3 times a week for two weeks. I promise you’ll find yourself running more and walking less, maybe even running the whole time. As your ability to run increases, you can add more time or begin to track your mileage. The import thing is to get a physical and mental base first. (So much of running is mental.) With those things in place the possibilities are endless. Who knows, you just might find yourself signing up for a 10k in no time.

*Running shoes should be purchased 1/2 to a full size larger than your normal shoe size to allow for your feet to swell when you run. They come in a variety of different types of stability, helping to correct pronation (curving inward) or supination (curving outward) or neutral for someone who lands fairly evenly. Purchasing the right shoes for you is a huge part of having a good running experience.

 

If you’d like more personalized help, I offer virtual training to riders everywhere so I’d love to hear from you!

 

For more information on virtual training, visit my website: www.blackjackfarmsandiego.com

 

 

Happy riding!

Robin

“A true horseman will only ask athletic feats of his horse if he has his own body under control.”

– from The Principals of Riding/German
National Equestrian Federation