Running: for those who struggle to begin

The very first time I tried to begin running in my adult life was after college, when me and two of my university classmates got relocated from Siberia to Moscow to begin our fancy jobs in consulting. I was 23, and that first run was a total disaster. My colleague was way better trained and bolted forward, while I was trying my best to catch up. I thought I was gonna die. I thought I was about to throw up my lungs. I was limping for three weeks after that pathetic half-mile run. I dropped the stupid idea for another three years at least.

Three years later I was dating my future husband. He ran occasionally and looked good. He didn’t at all had the vibe of somebody who is about to pass out after his runs. I really wanted to keep up. So he said he will slow down to my pace, if I was willing to give it a go. And he was true to his word.

That’s how running became possible for me. With a supportive partner who didn’t mind to walk alongside me, while I “ran”.

And like with any other skill, I it got better with practice.

Funny enough, back then we had a conversation I still remember today about our view of distance running. We were both absolutely sure, that 5K or 10K max is absolutely enough. That only lunatics who have nothing else to do run marathons. Fast-forward to 2021, we finished the Seattle Marathon, and I made it to top-10 of my devision.

So, here is the thing about running. It is truthfully one of the easiest activities to organize. No special equipment or gym memberships needed. Only a pair of decent running shoes to begin. 

In my case, a little bit of knowledge and a supportive partner were needed as well. 

For you there who are contemplating whether or not they should hit the trails, here are some tips that I think might be of use.

• Start slow! Begin with brisk walking. Add short intervals of easy jogging when you feel like it. Later you can time your intervals with more structure, for example, 1 minute run, three minutes walk. Then you can increase running time, while cutting the walking and one day you will be running only. With ease! When your body is ready.

• Start EASY! The vast majority of your training shouldn’t feel hard. It doesn’t matter whether you plan your distance, or time running, or heart rate.  Just forget about pace in the beginning. Make sure you are enjoying the runs.

• There are multiple options of your run’s soundtrack. It doesn’t have to be music. 

  • Although, I personally find music motivating, and there are some apps out there that could mix the tempo according to your needs. I used to use such apps to train intervals as well as long distance runs.

  • Lots of people listen to podcasts or audio books

  • Guided runs are fantastic, too. I loved that I could just follow the coach’s instructions and turn my brain off for a bit.

• Having a friend to chat is nice, too. Or just to sweat together. And to keep each other accountable.

• Also there are multiple running groups and clubs everywhere. Check your local community, and there sure will be some.

When/if you decide to increase the intensity and/or distance of your runs, you may want to look into proper hydration options, or fueling. But in the beginning, as I said before, a pair of shoes and a decent friend (either next to you or in your headphones) will do.

More running posts to come! Stay tuned and give it a go!

#TamaraTestsTheMoves #BeginnerRunner #FromZeroToHero #RunnersLife #RunningJourney