5K Training for Beginners
Training to run your first 5K can be both an exciting challenge and a daunting task. It’s widely considered a great distance for beginners to run due to its 3.1 miles in distance. Regardless of your conditioning level, most people can be ready to complete a 5K run within a few months. The following tips will help you to both safely and efficiently accomplish your goal of running a 5K.
Shoes
Before you even step out of the house, you need to have a great pair of running shoes. These shoes help to support your feet, absorb the shock from hitting the ground, keep you better aligned and more. Unfortunately, these shoes often cost more money than the average pair of sneakers. However, if you take advantage of store coupons like 6pm coupons, then you are sure to save some money.
Training Programs
Training programs are important because they help you to safely build up your conditioning level, reduce risk of stress or injuries and they keep you on a consistent schedule. Training programs will also be a mixture of hard work and enjoyment so that you can feel both challenged and content throughout the entire process. If you are looking for a great training program, then check out the simple, yet amazing app Couch to 5K. This app, and The Mayo Clinic’s 5K training schedule, offer training programs that are specifically designed for beginners. They are easy to understand and they will have you running a 5K in roughly two months.
Be Patient
Patience is important when trying to run your first 5K. It’s highly recommended that you stick to your training schedule unless your body is ready to jump ahead. For example, if you feel good running 1 mile, do not jump to 2 miles the next day unless your body is truly ready. Getting ahead in your training program could place unnecessary stress on your body, which can cause you to be sore, suffer an injury or require an extended rest period.
Time or Distance
According to Coolrunning.com, it’s important that you choose between running for time or for distance when training. These two options will help you to better keep track of your progress. Pick the one that is easiest for you to keep track of. Typically, most people choose to run for time since they have more access to a timer than a track.
Warm-Up and Cool-Down
Just like with any other modality of exercise or sport, it’s important to have periods of warming up and cooling down. A warm up period allows your body to loosen up, get the blood flowing and become more receptive to the physical stress of running. A cool down period allows your body to come down from the intensity and begin functioning at your normal levels. A 5 minute fast walk or jog is suffice for a warm up or cool down period. You can also do some stretching right after your warm up or cool down sessions. Stretching helps to alleviate tightness in muscles, to calm your breathing and to feel more relaxed.
About the author: Rick Rockwell has been a Health and Fitness professional for over 10 years serving in such capacities as a personal trainer, Group X instructor, teacher, coach and consultant. For more info on Rick, check out his official website at RockwellFitness.com.