Ok, so the screen shot above is from the very beginning of my running adventure. My first official run started on 01/12/13!! As you can see, I couldn't run much distance. And, I so remember thinking I was dying running these distances! But, you have to start some where. I had a lot of ups and downs. As a beginner, I did not have a clue of what in the world I was doing. The major "novice" mistake I made was trying to run everyday! Huge mistake! I ended up with knee pain from overtraining. I think in a beginning runner's head you think, I am not running that far, so I must run the most I can! Wrong! Body still needs rest and recover days. Finally, a dear friend of mine suggest training plans from Hal Higdon (see picture below! I actually got to meet him and get a signed book!). Therefore, I checked out his training plans at www.halhigdon.com. I have followed his plans ever since! With that being said, I will admit that at first I did not follow the training plans completely. BIG MISTAKE. See, fast forward about 1 1/2 years of running, I trained really hard to break my goal of running a half marathon under 2:30:00. I followed the Hal Higdon half marathon intermediate without a missed day! Guess what?!? I improved as a runner when at times I didn't realize it! My 5k times were getting faster and faster and I was able to run a half marathon at 2:08:14!! Much faster than my goal!!! I was over the moon! And, this is when it clicked to me that consistency is the key! If you are a new runner, I highly suggest Hal Higdon training programs. He has a plan for every type of runner. Stay consistent! And don't try to "race" everyone of your runs. Another note, if you need motivation to keep training on track, I suggest signing up for a 5k. Nothing like having a date set to run the goal distance. Also, another helpful tool (although most likely annoying to others) is to post your runs daily on social media like Facebook. I did this when I first started and it kept me accountable for getting in my scheduled runs. Most of my friends were supportive, others not so much (although they didn't tell me directly-but I know it did annoy some). Just know you can do it!!! Set your mind to a goal and just look forward! And guess what, if you walk a little during that first 5K, it is ok!!! I did!!! And still did way better than I ever expected!!!! So look for a 5K and sign up!
Are you starting your own running adventure? What made you start? Please share...
Are you an experienced runner that has suggestions for beginning runners? Share info, it would be much appreciate!