No matter if you are just getting back into running or you are completely brand new, you want to start gradually and work your way up to avoid getting injured.
Get Medical Clearance
Always check with your doctor before starting any kind of running program. While your doctor is very likely to agree with you when it comes to starting any sort of exercise program, you do want to get their advice before getting started.
Likewise, if you've sustained an injury or if you take medication, you want to ask whether or not there are certain guidelines that you should be sticking to. For instance, a lot of people that suffer from diabetes will want to bring a snack along with them at all times. Whereas, those who take blood pressure medication may need to utilize other methods to monitor their heart rate and intensity.
Invest In The Right Shoes and Gear
When you are getting started with running, you should be wearing the best pair of running shoes you can get. Visit The Orthotic Shop. Try to find shoes that fit as comfortably as possible. You also want to find the right pair of shoes based on your foot and particular running style. Try to visit a running store when you are getting your shoes fitted to identify shoes that fit.
While at the store, you are likely going to want to check out the different technical gear they are selling. This includes everything from running shorts to tops and even tights that may help you run better. Try to get clothing made out of wicking fabric that can keep you dry. This clothing isn't a necessity for running, they will help you maintain comfort while you are working out.
Stay Safe
You should be taking measured steps to help ensure that you keep your body safe from sustaining an injury. The best way you can do this is by warming up before getting started. You can do this by starting with a light job anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes before increasing the intensity of your runs. You may even want to incorporate different exercises to warm-up including stretching and drills.
To run safely, you should be following all running safety advice. This includes various common sense things like avoiding going against the traffic on the busy roads. Also, you want to always carry a means for identification whenever you are out for a run because it will allow someone to be able to identify you if you happen to get injured while running.
Run and Walk Method
The best way to start your running program is by utilizing the run and walk method. You can start off interchanging your running with walking which can keep you in the game and help you build the type of endurance you need. It can be much easier on your joints and it can be a good way to manage your intensity levels.
You can do this by starting with a minute of walking and switching to running soon after. Continue doing this until you manage to increase your intervals to the desired length. Soon you will be able to stick to all running.