Running is probably one of the hardest activities to start next to swimming... my team swims 3 times a week and that's it... (feeling a little burned out too)... BUT, I'd like to start running - and was wondering on if you guys have any tips.
I've googled it a bit and a lot of people say to start slow - walk a majority of the time and run in little spurts and build up from there.
Anyways, fellow swimmers - any other advice to give?
Former Member
Hee hee - the Couch to 5K program is what I have been looking at (and will be going by)! A couple weeks back I either saw an article about it on Yahoo or MSN. My goal is not a 5K... I want to just be able to run, that's all.
Everyone had great points about when to use the iPod. I would probably only use it when on a treadmill or at the track.
More than likely I will be running outside pushing my 1 year old in the stroller. I can talk about whatever I want to him... ha ha!
And yes, I'm going slow. I just need the exercise... a jog is perfect for someone built like me (not small).
All the running advice is good. I would add:
Stick with short distances, 2 miles tops, for at least 6 months. Run every other day. You could probably do more on any given day, but you will pay for it. The #1 run goal: stay injury free.
It is hard to be a consistent runner--or swimmer--but it does pay dividends.
Soft surfaces are better than hard. Cement is the worst, asphalt is better, dirt trails rule--though on trails a baby stroller might be a stretch.
Are you open minded? Learn how to run with your core. Your body will thank you. See: www.chirunning.com/.../home.phpGood luck. --mjm
When buying your shoes, go to a speciality store that will analyse your running gait and let you run in them before buying them. Skip the catalogs and malls until you know what you need.
There is a great book by Jack Daniels, (:drink:, not that one) the PhD. I know a lot of people who have had great success with it from 5 and 10K runners to ultra-marathoners. I have 5 parts of a 6 part article he wrote as a synopsis of the book. I can't upload it here (too big) but if you like I will e-mail it to you.
Be sure to vary your running distances and speeds. Find a local group that runs on a track for a once a week speed session.
There is a lot of evidence that running barefoot is good. I used to do it on the infield of the HS track after a speed session. My legs always felt great after!
