How To Become A Runner - Running Tips for Beginners

Let's get this out there first - I'm not a running expert.

I am not an Olympic athlete or even close! But, the point is, for most people wanting to know how to become a runner - it doesn't matter.

If fact, I would say that the most important quality for a social or fitness runner, which is what I am, is not speed, distance or pace.

It's commitment and consistency.

In this page I'll share with you some running tips for beginners to get you motivated and moving!

Here are just a few tips that will help get you motivated and moving:

1. Set yourself a running goal.

For me, this is a really great way to get motivated and to keep me out there keeping up with my training. Often I will find a fun run being held and register for the run. This way, I'm committed! I'm committed not only to that run but to getting out there and training!

2. Write or get a running plan.

Most people are busy with their everyday lives and it is easy to get into a habit of not training or skipping sessions when you had told yourself you would go for a run today. You need to make a plan or a schedule for training. Don't just have it in your head that you 'might go for a run later', write down your training plan, put your training into your diary or calendar. This makes the commitment much stronger and you are far more likely to keep it.

3. Find a running buddy or a running group.

Running doesn't have to be a lonely sport! Finding a friend who will run with you or finding a group to run with will make you accountable to others for showing up - which has a great impact on your showing up rate! It also makes things fun and social. If you can't find anyone locally then you can also consider joining an online community for runners. There are lots of people online who form little accountability groups.

4. Use various training methods

Varying your training will improve your performance and maintain your interest in running. Interval training and Fartlek training particularly are great at increasing your speed. You can write your own training program or find some online.

5. Track your progress

You can measure things like your time, distance, speed and pace and track these - on paper, in a spreadsheet or using an online website or even smart phone app. Seeing your progress will really spur you on and give you a real sense of achievement.