I have been a “runner-in-training” for about 5 years now.  Meaning that, basically, I’m not very good.  I’m slow and steady sweaty and probably look a little pathetic trotting along.  But I love the way I feel afterward.  So I keep doing it. I don’t run far, I haven’t lost any weight, and by this point, surely you are wondering why I am giving you tips.

I guess it’s mostly just to say “Hey.  If I can do it, anyone can.”

So here are some tips that have made running just a little more tolerable for me.

1. Find a trail you enjoy.  I used to run in my own neighborhood, but there are so many hills and stoplights, I found myself feeling more annoyed than anything.  Once Stevie started preschool, I tried a jog in that area and I haven’t looked back.  Nice flat surfaces, lots of trees and super convenient, since I can just drop him off and go.
2. Stretch before and after your run.  I only stretch for like a minute – a couple toe touches, kicks, lunges. Quick and easy, but I rarely get sore.
3. Use a training program.  My personal favorite has been the Couch to 5K, but find one that works for you. C25K is a walk/run program where you build up your tolerance for running slowly over time.  And you’ll be amazed when you reach the end of the 9 week program and you are running for 30 minutes with no walk breaks.  There’s an app for that.  It tells you when to stretch, walk, run and allows you to control your music and track your miles and minutes per mile.  The only thing missing is it doesn’t show is how many calories you burn.  But maybe you’d rather not know.
4. Set goals for yourself.  When I don’t have a goal in mind, I find running to be rather boring.  A few weeks ago, I finished my C25K program and couldn’t stay motivated to run  just for fun.  Yeah, I’m so not that girl. So I decided to start over and try to improve my running times.  Added a little sprinting to my jog.  Whether it’s going farther or faster or just starting out, goals will help you keep going.
5. Invest in good equipment.  You could spend a small fortune on good running clothes and equipment, but I started from the bottom and worked my way up.
   1. Socks and shoes first since they do all the heavy lifting.  Get fitted.
   2. When athletic wear goes on sale at Target or Old Navy, pick up a pair of shorts or a sports bra here and there.  Tagless running tees are great.  Once I started using actual running gear, trying to workout in my leggings or cotton t-shirts felt like I was moving through a swamp.
   3. I also love my bluetooth headphones.  I always felt like I was fussing with wires, so these help me not get caught up.
   4. And finally a solid pair of sunglasses.  I’ll tell you what, my sunglasses were the most expensive thing of all. But they have made a world of difference.  One of the best investments I’ve made to help me be more comfortable during the 30 minutes of torture exercise.  And that’s really what it’s about.  Find ways to make it enjoyable for you.

Are you a beginner?  What helps you be a better runner?  What’s your motivation?