You’ve decided you want to be a runner. Congratulations! As we get started, keep a couple things in mind.
First off we all had a day 1. Nobody was born a great runner. We all struggled and continue to struggle every day.
The only difference between the runner who has been training for years, the beginner a couple months in, and someone reading this debating whether to go buy shoes … is time invested.
If you are willing to put in the time then you can be a runner.
The second key thing to remember: focus on safe and steady progress. Don’t over do it. A healthy runner is a happy runner.
Your first step? Pick a goal.
What are you trying to accomplish? What does your finish line look like?
Your first goal might be to run a 5k, or lose 15 pounds. Someone who is established in a running routine may choose to increase speed, add distance, or tackle hill training.
Pick a goal and give yourself something to look forward to.
When you progress toward a specific goal, you are more likely to stay on track.With a finish line ahead, you’ll be more likely to get back up again if you do fall.
So figure out what you want to accomplish and write it down. Right now. Physically grab a piece of paper and write down your goal (even if that goal is to stay at your current fitness level).
Next, put it up somewhere you’ll see it often, like your bathroom mirror or fridge. This note will serve as a constant reminder that you want to, and can, achieve this goal.
Turning your goal into a physical reminder is the first step in making your future finish line a part of the real world. You can touch it and see it all day every day.
Congratulations. You have now transformed your goal from a thought in your mind to a part of reality – and you haven’t even laced up your shoes yet.
This is the first part of progress: deciding what you are progressing toward.
From here, we need to outline a training plan and budget it into your schedule.
So what’s your goal? Drop a comment or question below.
