Learning to run safely
Are you thinking of getting off that couch to prepare for the Vancouver Sun Run? Better join us this week, otherwise the InTraining program will have progressed too far for you to be comfortable.
Here’s what I’m often asked: Can I learn to run? Am I too old, short, tall, heavy, skinny? Yes, you can learn to run.
The run with 50,000-plus participants, is a true testimony that truly anyone, any shape, size or age can learn to run comfortably and safely.
What if I’m prone to things like shin splints, sore knees/feet/ arches, hip aches? That’s where a coach and a proper, progressive program come in, a pair of wellfit shoes and some good common personal sense to listen to your body.
The temptation is always to do too much too fast too soon.
Remember: Be patient. Seek out a well-thought out program. This program is tried-and-true and has evolved through feedback from participants over the last 20 years.
Make a personal decision to stick to that program, which means you’ll need to find three, one-hour time slots to train each week.
So, what should my pace be like? Your pace should be such that you could always carry on a conversation with a friend. If that’s not the case, then please slow down.
I prefer the word “shuffle” to “run” in the beginning.
Keep a log book by your bedside table or in the kitchen. Jot down your daily workouts and how you felt. Refer to it often. It will help you stay motivated, track aches and pains, and will be something that you can be proud of.