One of the biggest challenges beginner runners face is increasing their distance. As they try to push their runs a little bit farther, new runners often face physical and mental obstacles. If you're just getting started with running, try some of these strategies to make your runs longer -- and more enjoyable. Just remember that, in order to prevent injuries, you should not increase your weekly mileage by more than 10% each week.
Make Sure You Warm-up
A good
warm-up before running can prevent all sorts of problems, such as side stitches and muscle tightness, that could sabotage your run. And -- along those same lines -- don't forget to cool down for at least five minutes at the end of your run, too.
Run Outside
Let's face it: Running on the treadmill can sometimes be, well, boring. Although
treadmill running may be a little easier physically, it can be a much more difficult mental challenge. So, if weather and safety permits, get yourself outside for your runs. The fresh air, scenery, and new routes may distract you so much that you'll run longer than you normally would on that old treadmill.
Do a Run/Walk Combination
Don't put pressure on yourself to run the entire length of your desired distance. By doing a
run/walk combination, you'll be able to cover more distance and you'll still get a great workout. And, don't worry, you'll slowly build the fitness -- and confidence -- you need to run longer without walking.
Stop and Stretch
"I had to stop running because my calf/quad/hamstring was tight." Tightness in various muscles is a common reason why beginner runners (as well as more experienced ones) end their runs early. Often, if you're feeling tightness in a muscle, a little mid-run stretching can go a long way. Try
stretching the affected body part for about 30 seconds and then try continuing your run. Of course, if you're feeling pain that doesn't get better as you warm-up, you may need to stop running. (Find out more about
when it's OK to run through pain.)
Run with Other People
Many of the beginner runners I coach remark that they never would be able to run long without their running partners. Whether it's because of peer pressure, the distraction of conversation, the motivational support, or maybe a combination of all three, runners who buddy up with friends usually find that they can run longer. If you usually run alone, ask a friend or family member to join you, or
find a running group near you.
Prevent Side Stitches
While you may think that side stitches are an inevitable part of running, you can actually avoid them. Follow these
steps to preventing side stitches, so they don't force you to cut your runs short.
Run at a Conversational Pace
One of the most common reasons why beginner runners stop running before they reach their goal distance is because they're running too fast. When you're first getting started with running, you really should be running at a conversational pace, which means that you can very easily talk in complete sentences while running. If you're gasping for air, you're definitely going too fast.
More: How to Breathe While Running
Fight the Mental Battle
Some beginner runners are actually physically fit enough to run a certain distance, but they don't have the confidence or mental strength to push themselves farther. In many cases, it's simply "mind over matter." Try to distract yourself by playing mind games, choosing new running routes, or running with other people.
More: Tips for Staying Motivated to Run
Set Small Goals for Yourself
Having very short-term goals to work toward can also help with the mental challenges of running longer. Your goals can be as simple as, "Run to the next stop sign" (and then the next stop sign, and the one after that). As long as it keeps you moving, it doesn't matter how lame or uninspired your goal might seem.
