Have you been inspired by the London Marathon? Maybe you have already taken your first steps to next year’s event? Maybe you’ve got your new trainers, stop watch and headed out only to find it is jolly hard work. Within three minutes your legs, lungs and even your insides hurt. What’s this all about? It looks so easy on the TV. Who ever said ‘everyone can be a runner’? Please don’t give up….like anything that’s worthwhile it takes time to get into running.
The most common thing we find at SE Fitness is that people start too fast and then give up. Programme in a walk. Run a bit, walk a bit and aim to be able to hold a conversation whilst running. Start with a walk to warm up, and, end with a walk to cool down. Be a proper runner and do your cool down stretches at the end. In order to improve you need to be doing at least three sessions each week. Walking can be a part of your running programme – if you are slightly out of breath you are stressing your cardiovascular system and thus developing the heart which is a muscle.
Another common concern for beginner runners is the aches and pains that come with it. How long is it going to hurt? Start gently and build up to avoid too much discomfort. If you are still feeling sore when you set out for your next session you need to give yourself a little more rest in between. However, don’t be put off by a bit of soreness – this just shows that you are progressing.
Finally the ‘stitch’ can be a real concern to those starting to run. Research suggests that the stitch is due to tension. Try to keep relaxed, slow down, check what you have eaten and drunk.
Most importantly enjoy your running and you never know next year it might be you who’s running past Buckingham Palace amid the supporters of the 2012 London marathon.