Thinking about learning to run? Don’t hold off any longer - just do it! When I first started my running journey, I would've never imagined that years later, I’d be a marathon runner. That’s what's so cool about running - once you start, you’ll fall in love with it and become unstoppable! So how do you start running if you feel like a complete beginner? Keep on reading my top tips! #1 Believe in yourself MIND > MATTER. The most common reason people don’t start running is because they mentally stop themselves. First up, you need to recognise that EVERYONE is capable of running - no matter your shape or size. Even if it's challenging when you start, just know that you will get better if you keep at it. And of course, don’t waste time comparing yourself to others. Your fitness journey is unique to you! #2 Don’t go too hard, too fast It’s great if you're feeling motivated, but don’t go too hard out too quick! Many people find themselves trying to run super fast in their first few sessions, however, doing this may do more harm than good. Whilst you're still a beginner, it’s best to focus on proper running technique instead of trying to run as fast or as long as possible. So keep the distances short and work your way up from there. RUN with Elise, will help you gradually increase your running distance, so by the end, you’ll work up to running 3 miles. #3 Don’t neglect strength training Just because you want to start running, doesn’t mean you should give up on strength training altogether. In fact, strength training becomes even more important than ever before if you want to learn to run. Strengthening your glutes, hamstrings, and core is particularly important to help prevent overuse injuries, and help improve your stride. I recommend doing full body strength training at least 2x a week in addition to running. This is why there are strength training days in my running program! #4 Fuel yourself properly Running is quite a demanding type of cardio - it’s not the type of activity you want to do whilst feeling super hungry or thirsty! Be sure to fuel yourself adequately with good nutrition. It’s ideal to have a pre workout snack at least 15 minutes prior to running, as well as having a protein-rich snack post-run. Drinking water during your run will help keep you hydrated and performing your best. You can even mix in a scoop of BEYOND BCAAs and drink during your run to help delay muscular fatigue. #5 Do stretches and active recovery Recovery is SO important to prevent injuries and keep your muscles in tip-top condition. So what should you do? Be sure to do static stretches after every single session. It’s particularly important to stretch your quads and calves which are often the most overworked muscles from running. On your rest days, it’s a good idea to keep your body moving. This is called ‘active recovery’. Active recovery helps your muscles recover faster, so you can do your next running session with ease. Some great examples of active recovery include foam rolling, or simply going for a walk. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elise-Rose- weightloss journey (@eliserosestanier) Whilst learning to run can seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. With the right regime, tips and tricks, you’ll be able to boost your fitness and get better at running each and every day. I’ve colloated my techniques into my beginner’s running program, RUN with Elise, so that I can take you from complete beginner to running your first 3 miles! So what are you waiting for? Start RUN with Elise today!Elise xx