Running is your 2024 resolution?
The power behind a runner’s mindset — How to find your Stride :)
Is making running a part of your lifestyle your resolution for 2024?
Running is a sport that holds very close to my heart and it’s a hobby that I would recommend to everyone. I have been running since the 8th grade and the number of benefits I’ve gotten from it have been astronomical — yes both physically and mentally.
Runner’s mindset
Running is something that has showed me the true power of the mind.
Unlocking barriers and being a great mental outlet. Ever since I started running in year 8, I had the goal of making peninsula (State championships).
For years I tried to make it but kept just missing out. However, in year 12 with the school workload being at an all-time high I managed to pull it off. Qualifying for the state championships in 2023.
I was over the moon!
When you achieve a goal through hard work there’s no better feeling. Trust me!
Along the journey I learned so much — if only I knew some of this stuff before I started running, I would have gone much further. But I’m still grateful for the opportunities and progress that the sport has given me.
Here are some tips — that will save you time and allow yourself to see benefits from the get-go.
Beginner’s Guide to Running: Tips for a Strong Start
1. Build Your Aerobic Base:
- Aerobic base is essentially the foundation of your fitness. This phase is essential for the body to adapt and build endurance.
2. Consistency is Key:
- Craft a personal training schedule and adhere to it, aiming for 3–4 runs weekly at a comfortable pace to gradually improve your fitness.
- Pace Yourself: Maintain an easy pace where conversation is possible, indicating you’re at 60–70% of your max heart rate, to avoid overexertion in the early stages.
3. Gradual Distance Increase:
After establishing your aerobic base, introduce varied workouts like intervals, speed training, and my all-time favorite hill repeats to challenge yourself further while improving your speed and fitness.
4. You probably heard this one before but…
Time to get a watch!!
Hehe that was fun to say (type) at least it was funny in my mind okay….
:)
This isn’t essential, but it’s extremely useful.
Using a watch is great way to track your progress and it’s always awesome to see how much your fitness and capabilities have come along from when you first started.
In the long run, you’ll be able to use it to inspire and motivate others because of your improvement.
I personally use a Garmin (not sponsored…unfortunately) I would recommend it to any level of runner/athlete. I found it more accurate compared to a Fitbit.
But of course, find a brand that best works for you!!
5. Prioritize strength.
For your body to be able to handle faster workouts over a longer distance your bones need to be strong. This is where going to gym makes a HUGE difference. Incorporate a strength training plan with your running workouts and watch your results over time skyrocket!
If going to the gym, isn’t ya style don’t stress. There are some exercises that you can do from the comfort of your own home. A quick Google search and some research should do the trick — in finding what works best for you.
6. Join a clubbbb!
It’s a great way to get yourself motivated and will help to keep you more consistent. I’ve found that it’s also a great way to network and make new friends.
Join your local parkrun.
According to a quick Google search there are 1,941 parkrun’s across the world. How cool is that!??
It makes the whole getting more fit thing way, way more enjoyable! :)
Tips to stay disciplined.
A mindset that I find helpful:
Running sometimes is hard but being someone who doesn’t show up for themselves is worse. Avoiding discomfort and choosing the easy option only makes life harder. So, the small things are really more of a test then the big things. Your daily actions then become your habits which become your identity. By choosing the hard option you prove to yourself that you are capable. The more you choose the harder option the stronger your mind will become, and the easier life will get.
Important side note: Remember, these insights stem from personal experience, not professional advice. Tailor you’re running and strength training to fit your unique goals and capabilities.
Embrace the challenge, and let every step forward reinforce your belief in your potential.
As we step into 2024, let’s make running not just a resolution but a gateway to discovering our strengths, breaking down mental barriers, and unfolding a journey of self-improvement and resilience.
Ready, set, run towards a year of incredible growth and achievements!
You got this!!
Please comment your thoughts. All the best:)
