Your Couch to 5K Summer Wake Up Call
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Make This Summer the Start of your Couch to 5K Journey
Summer is here and kids are out of school. For you busy parents out there, there is finally a break from all the extra curricular activities and Mum/Dad’s taxi service gets a well earned rest.
As the evenings take on a less hectic feel and the sunlight lingers on later, you may think, ‘What if I ran?’. This thought has entered your head before but it was instantly shut down by, ‘I don’t have time, it’s too cold out there, I don’t even know where to start’.
Why there is No ‘Perfect Time’ to Start Running
Is there ever a perfect time to start running? No, and there is absolutely no point in waiting for it. The best time is always NOW. Never later or when the weather is better, or when I have more time or when I lose a few pounds. Start where you are now. Summer is the perfect opportunity to shake off the excuses.
The Mental and Physical Benefits of a 20 Minute Run
There’s something magical about lacing up your shoes after work for a 20 minute run and returning home with endorphins buzzing. You feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. You have shaken off the stresses of your day and you are back full of energy and more present for your family. It is a win for you and your family. So, lets get running!
What You Need to Start Running: The 3 S’s – Shorts, Shoes, Shirt
You don’t need fancy gear to get started. All you need is a pair of shorts, technical T-shirt, (sports bra for the ladies) and a comfortable pair of running shoes. Don't get too caught up in what running shoes to buy. Get a pair that are comfortable and supportive for you. Buy a pair a half size bigger than your normal shoe size to allow for movement of your feet when running.
Beginner Runner Plan - Walk to Run Method
Next thing you need is a plan. (Download here)
The key is to start slowly and build slowly. Your body will adapt to the training and will become stronger with each session. Too much too soon results in injuries and frustration and inevitably giving up. Slow and steady is key to starting out. You should start with a mix of walking and running, increasing running time and reducing time walking as you progress through the plan. Find your rhythm, a pace that you are comfortable with and build on that. If you are struggling to breathe, you are going too fast, slow it down and your breathing will become easier. (Have I said the word 'Slow' enough times?) Be patient and follow the plan. Commit to the training and you will reap the benefits.
How to Mentally Prepare Yourself for Running
So now you look the part and you have a plan. That’s all you need right? Well, not quite. Running is just as much a mental endeavour as it is a physical one. You need to have belief in yourself. You need to replace the negative inner monologue saying, ‘I can’t do this’, ‘I am not a runner,’ with, ‘I can do this,’ ‘I am becoming a runner’, ‘I am strong and capable of more than I think’. Remember that you have control over this inner voice, so keep it positive. Give yourself credit for all the small wins. As you believe you will achieve.
Transform Yourself This Summer
If you have been waiting for a sign to start running, this is it. Let the longer evenings draw you outside, away from the tempting comfort of the couch and the sinking feeling that you’ve given up on yourself. Let this summer be the one you remember as the beginning or your running journey, the start of your transformation into a stronger, more resilient person. The hardest part is the first step out of the door. As soon as you do that you are well on your way. You are becoming the version of yourself you always meant to become. Take a deep breath and go, I promise, you will not regret this.
Ready to Take Your First Step as a Runner?
Download my FREE Couch to 5K Plan
For more information have a look at some of my books:
Running for Beginners: The Easiest Guide to Running Your First 5K in only 6 Weeks
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