5 Unconventional Tips For New Runners

Even though I’ve been running for a long time, I am still learning new things about running every single day. I read blog posts from my favorite runners, I read articles on line, I listen to podcasts–and the learning NEVER ends! Just four short years ago I decided to start taking my running seriously and run longer and longer distances. It has been a complete roller coaster, from the very high highs of personal records and running like the wind, to the very low lows of never wanting to lace up my sneakers to run again. Running is a wild beast that simply cannot be controlled!

There are a few things that I wish I absolutely knew before I really started putting in consistent miles every single week. Things that I had heard whispers about but didn’t really KNOW until I experienced it myself. Don’t worry, I’m here to share these things so that YOU don’t get caught out there like I did!

5 Unconventional Tips For New Runners

1. You will chafe. And it will hurt.: I will admit, I had read some of tales of chafing and while I felt sympathy for the people in pain, I had never experienced it in my very short career of running. That was until I ran my very first half marathon in a monsoon. My husband had to peel my wet clothes off of me (trust me there was NOTHING sexy about this) and he discover a series of welts all along my back where my bra had attacked my skin. Chafing can pretty much happen anywhere (YES, EVEN THERE) so I suggest always having a small tube of glide to put on yourself BEFORE you run. Trust me, you will thank me later.
2. Don’t compare: This seems super cliche, but it’s the realest advice ever. When I started racing I’d get super disappointed when I see people running faster and pretty much dusting me behind. Then I’d get further in the race and realize and sometimes pass that person! When you race, the only person you have to beat is yourself. That is it.
3. Don’t only run: 11 years ago I started running every single day. I ran 4-5 miles a day. I did this for three months straight, the weight was falling off, there was no reason to stop right? Except I injured my knee pretty bad. I wasn’t taking any rest days and I wasn’t doing any cross training. I’ve noticed now that I actually have better training runs after strength training or spinning. Vary your workouts while improving your running–it will help you, trust me!
4. Go for a walk: I know this sounds crazy right? I remember a couple of days when training runs seemed impossible–either my body or my mind did NOT want to cooperate. Sometimes taking ALL the pressure off with a walk can really get you in the right frame of mind to run.
5. Don’t Drink at every water station: It’s tempting, I know. In my first marathon I was fixated on drinking gatorade AND water at every mile. That adds up to a lot of liquid doesn’t it?! I am pretty sure that is why I ended up feeling so awful at the end. Drink whatever works for you, practice different consumptions, sometimes it might be a little better to skip a drink station if you are in the zone, or don’t need any hydration at the moment.

I am partnering with 6 other amazing running bloggers so that they can share their amazing tips for new runners too! Check them out because even I learned some awesome nuggets!

Laura @ This Runner’s Recipes

Angela @ Happy Fit Mama

Sarah @ Run Far Girl

Allie @ VITA Train 4 Life

Carly @ Fine Fit Day

What are some running tips that you would share that no one ever told you?

Nellie

Hi! I’m Nellie. I am a busy mama of three, wife to my high school sweetheart who loves to cook, workout and stay organized! I love to share helpful printables, the best recipes and fitness tips for the modern mom. I strongly believe that every mom can feed their family well, take proper care of themselves and have fun along the way! Read my story.

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