So, you’re thinking about taking up running?

If you’re looking for a way to stay fit, running is a go-to option for many people. It’s a popular and accessible form of exercise that’s likely crossed your mind at some point.

But don’t be fooled by its deceptively simple appearance!

To be an efficient, effective, and good runner, there’s a lot to learn that the average person wouldn’t even consider. From your stride and core strength to your breath control and pacing, running is a complicated activity that very few humans are currently capable of doing well.

But don’t worry, we’re here to help!

Before you hit the pavement, it’s important to be aware of some common misconceptions about running.

Here are five things that people mistakenly think: “Oh yeah, I got this…” when they actually don’t:

MYTH: “I used to run in school, so I can run as an adult.”

Running as an adult is different from running as a kid. Your body has changed, and your muscles and bones may not be as resilient as they used to be.

MYTH: “These cushy, cushy shoes are gonna help me run better.”

While it’s important to have proper shoes for running, shoes with too much cushioning can actually lead to injury by altering your natural stride. They can make it harder to feel the ground and can cause your feet to land improperly, leading to injury. Instead, look for shoes that provide support and protection without sacrificing natural movement.

MYTH: “If I just run more, I’ll run better.”

It’s not just about running more, but running smarter. A well-designed training plan that includes rest days and varied workouts will lead to better results than just increasing your mileage without a plan.

MYTH: “I don’t need a coach to run. I’ve seen people run!”

A coach can be a valuable resource, especially when it comes to developing proper form and avoiding injury.

MYTH: “I’m gonna sign up for a marathon–that’ll make me run enough to be good.”

While signing up for a marathon can be a great motivator, it’s not a shortcut to becoming a good runner. It takes time and dedication to build up the stamina and endurance needed to run a marathon.

Key Tips for a Great Start

But let’s end on a high note: if you DO want to take up running, and you’re willing to put in the time and effort, there are some simple things you can do to make it a better experience for you.

Here are three things that you can do that will immediately benefit you if you want to take up running:

1. Start slow. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Build up your mileage gradually, and be patient with yourself.
2. Strengthen the muscles that need to be strong to run pain-free. Your tibialis anterior and lower leg muscles are important to strengthen in order to prevent shin splints, plantar fasciitis, runner’s knee, and other chronic running issues. You can accomplish this with tib raises and calf raises.
3. Start with short runs. Ten short runs are a 1000x better than one long run. Gradually increasing the length and intensity of your runs will lead to better results in the long term.

By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to becoming a better runner in no time.

Happy running!