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7 Tips For Moms Who Want To Start Running
Moms who want to start running have an extra added challenge that comes in a teeny tiny form, their children. Not only do children put demands on our time that make it hard to fit in a run, but they also often leave us physically exhausted and wondering how we're going to find enough energy to get that last load of laundry in the washer much less exercise. So here are a few keys to help get you started based off of nothing more than my own experience and the experience of the runners (and runner wannabes) I've observed over the years. #1 Buy Yourself a Good Pair of Running Shoes. For two reasons, first, when I buy a new pair of running shoes at around $100 a pop, I am committed. I can't bear to watch them go unused when that money could've been spent elsewhere. And secondly, running in a good pair of running shoes designed to fit your feet will help you avoid a lot of unnecessary aches and pains and even injury. Go to a running store, not just a sporting goods store to buy your shoes. Most good running stores have trained their staff to properly measure and evaluate your feet and even your stride and will therefore be able to fit you with a pair of shoes that's right for you. #2 Find a Running Partner. Because misery loves company? Not quite. More because there will be less rolling over and back to sleep in the morning if you know someone is waiting for you. This works even better if you make sure the phone is not too close to your bed. If you actually have to get out of bed to make the "I'm not coming today call," and you're already up, then you might as well throw your shoes on right? But if you can't convince anyone to join you, no worries, there are plenty of online running communities like Tribal Running, Runners World and Kickrunners just to name a few, where you can find virtual running partners. Or if you are already on a social network like Facebook, Twitter, or MySpace, look for a running group to join. One thing about runners is they love to talk about running and it shouldn't be hard to find a person to report your running to online. (One Word of Caution Here: Please remember to be careful online and do not go meet someone for a run that you have only chatted with online alone.) The key here is finding someone to be accountable to so you can't just skip your run without having to 'fess up to someone. #3 Set a Goal or Sign Up For a Race. Having something you are working towards is a great way to keep yourself motivated. Personally, I do both by setting a goal for a race. If you're totally new to running and not just getting back at again, than you need to understand something about runners and races. Most runners are friendly and most races are fun. Please don't feel like you have to be running sub 6 minute miles before you sign up for a race. What you will find is that people of all different capabilities enter races, from the mosey along walkers to the speed demon sprinters. You'll fit in just fine. Race days are usually exciting, enjoyable and when you finish you'll be proud to have accomplished something. And let's not forget many of them will award you with a t-shirt and food and sometimes a medal as well. #4 Schedule Your Running Time. I run a flexible 4 days a week. Flexible because I have babies and as such there are nights that I don't get a lot of sleep and there are days when despite my best efforts it's not happening. So by schedule, I don't necessarily mean every morning at exactly 6AM you will run for 1 hour. Not at all. I mean make yourself a plan for how you're going to hit that goal you set. Figure out the best days and the best times for you to run, but I'm a firm believer that moms need to cut themselves a bit of slack and not be so rigid with their workouts that they can't adjust when necessary. It's probably the number one reason I see people give running up. They can't stick to the daily schedule they've made for themselves. They feel guilty, get frustrated and quit. Even the greatest athletes build in a little bit of rest time for themselves. Moms are no different. #5 Start Slow. Even if you were a running stud in your hey day, remember you're just starting back up again. Your body is not the same as it used to be and might take a little getting used to especially if you're just starting up after pregnancy (you'll be dealing with something I call the post-pregnancy jiggle) or if you haven't been active at all in awhile. Start with realistic goals and train at an intensity that will help you get there. I recommend all new runners (or born again runners) start with some kind of run/walk program at least until you get a feel for how you're running. #6 Involve the Kiddies. Kids of all ages can help you with your new running goals. Infants can go out with you in a jogging stroller, which can often be found very inexpensively on Craig's List or a re-sale shop, if you're not wanting to spend the big bucks just yet. Or if you're just starting with walking, a baby carrier will do. Older children, even toddlers, can do a bit of running with you and can participate in children's events that a lot of races will hold in conjunction with the adult races. It's a great way to lay the foundation for a healthy active lifestyle for your kids. And if you have them participate in a children's race, you're also teaching them the principles of hard work, follow through, and sportsmanship. #7 Reward Yourself. Either in a big way once you reach your goal (when I am able to run a 5K, I'm going to get a pedicure) or in a smaller way on a more frequent basis (every day I get my run in, I get a little mini peppermint patty). It may seem silly, but you might surprise yourself just how hard you'll work for a little reward. And trust me, you'll deserve it! Happy running mammas! Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com Kelly A Collins is a runner, writer, home based business owner and mamma to two beautiful and wildly entertaining little girls ages 3 years and 7 months. She is currently training for her 2nd Marathon and blogging about it every step of the way. To read her latest adventure visit Secrets of a Running Mom |
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