My Next Challenge

Hello again and happy day after Easter! I hope everyone enjoyed the last series of blog posts.  For the next month or so (maybe longer depending on how things go) I've decided to focus my posts on running and the benefits/pitfalls of running. Now, I’m not a runner by any means, so I’m challenging myself to become one.  I did a few calculations (and you can too with any online exercise calculator) about running.  At my current weight, if I ran/jogged for 1 hour I could burn 885 calories! That’s a lot more than I burn now during my normal exercise routine. Running/jogging for just 15 minutes a day I can still burn up to 221 calories!

Getting started will be the hardest part, so I did some research about that too. Here are a few tips that I was able to gather from a multitude of running experts.

• Weight training--specifically the quads and core; a definite must-do for runners.  I will share my routine in another post.
• Take shorter strides as that makes running feel easier. As such, you should be able to run faster and longer.
• Breathe correctly. Most runners follow a 2-2 breathing pattern: two steps while breathing in, then 2 steps while breathing out. You can also try 3-2 breathing.  3 steps while breathing in, then out for 2 steps. Figure out what works best for you.
• Eat more. You’ll get fatigued much quicker without adequate calories. You don’t have to tell me twice!
• Stretching. Do a run warm-up for about 5-10 minutes, and then stop to stretch. Also, don’t forget to stretch again after your run. Doing both helps prevent injuries, and who doesn’t need to stretch more?
• Follow the 10% rule. Only increase your distance by 10% each week. If you increase your speed quickly you are really prone to an injury. There have been multiple studies done proving that you are less prone to injury increasing your mileage by 10% each week.
• Start slow, and then pick up the pace as you warm-up.
• Wear the right shoes. This, I think is the most important tip. Go to a running store for your shoes. They’ll point you in the right direction.  I went to the store and consulted Runner’s World magazine for the best shoes. For me, the best pair was Nike Lunarglide 4! Ask the experts and try on your selection before you leave the store! You have to be comfortable or you will be miserable! 

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I can’t wait to start this new challenge! Stay tuned for what I know will be both fun and fitful! 

Here I Go!