Beginners
By Christine Luff, About.com Guide to Running & Jogging
Whether you want to run for health, fitness, weight loss, competition, or fun, you'll need to learn the basics about running. Get started with these resources, including advice on how to run, beginner training schedules, and injury prevention tips.
Getting Started
Learn the basics about getting started with running and staying motivated to keep at it.
- Absolute Beginners' Guide to Running
- What is Running?
- 10 Great Reasons to Run
- Get Medical Clearance for Running
- How to Buy the Right Running Shoes
- What Should I Wear When Running?
- How to Find the Perfect Sports Bra
- Get the Proper Socks for Running
- Where Should I Run?
- Stay Motivated to Run
How to Run
Learn what you need to know to get started with running, including proper form, technique, and breathing. Get information on how to run outside, on a treadmill, and in your first race.
- How to Warm-Up and Cool Down
- How to Do the Run/Walk Method
- How to Breathe While Running
- How Fast Should I Run?
- Tips for Proper Running Form
- Safety Tips for Running
- Basic 8-Week Plan to Get Started With Running
- How to Run Hills Properly
- 10 Common Running Mistakes
- Video: Proper Running Form
- E-Course: Improve Your Running Motivation
- E-Course: 3 Weeks to a 30-Minute Running Habit
Nutrition and Hydration
A runner's diet is important not for only maintaining good health, but also to promote peak performance. Whether you're trying to lose weight, training for a race, or running for fitness, get advice on what to eat and drink.
- Should I Eat Before a Run?
- 5 Smart Eating Rules for Runners
- Diet and Nutrition for Runners
- Hydration Needs for Runners
- Can I Get Cramps from Drinking Water?
- Best Foods for Runners
- Healthy Snacks for Runners
- Common Sports Nutrition Mistakes
- Do I Need to Hydrate With Sports Drinks?
Running for Weight Loss
Many new runners start running because they want to lose weight. Get tips and advice for maximum weight loss through healthy eating and exercise.
- Tips for Running and Weight Loss
- 7 Habits of Skinny Runners
- How to Control Your Portion Sizes
- How Can I Not Feel Hungry All the Time?
- More Healthy Weight Loss Tips for Runners
- Why Am I Gaining Weight During Training?
- Ways to Boost Your Metabolism
- Break Through Your Weight Loss Plateau
- Tips for Cravings Control
- Share Your Weight Loss Tips
Road Racing for Beginners
After you've been running for a little while, you might want to run your first road race. Get training schedules for road races, from 5Ks to marathons, plus tips on running races.
- Train for Your First 5K
- Email-Course: Run Your First 5K
- Advanced Beginner 5K Training Schedule
- Run Your First 10K
- Advanced Beginner 10K Training Schedule
- Beginner Half-Marathon Training Schedule
- Beginner Marathon Training Schedule
- Common Fears About Road Racing
- All About Training for and Running a 5K Race
- All About Training for and Running a 10K Race
- Your First Marathon
- Should I Run the Day Before a Race?
- Common Racing Mistakes to Avoid
- Road Race Etiquette Tips
- How to Take Water from Hydration Stops
- Tips for Your First Road Race
- What's a Chip Time?
- What's a PR?
Treadmill Running
Get tips and motivation for running on the treadmill.
- Beat Treadmill Boredom
- Tips for Treadmill Running
- Common Treadmill Running Mistakes
- Can I Train for a Race on a Treadmill?
- Treadmill vs. Outside Running
- Do I Burn More Calories Running Outside?
- Treadmill Hill Workout
- Are Calorie Counts on Treadmills Accurate?
Injuries and Illnesses
Beginner runners are often worried about reaggravating an old injury or getting a new running injury. Find out how to prevent and treat common running injuries and ailments.
- Common Running Injuries
- How to Prevent Running Injuries
- Video: Stretches for Runners
- Common Runners' Foot Problems
- How to Get Rid of Side Stitches
- What If I Have to Take a Break from Running?
- How to Self-Treat Running Injuries
- Should I Use Ice or Heat on my Running Injury?
- When Can I Run Through Pain?
- Can I Run With a Cold?
- Running With Seasonal Allergies
- Embarrassing Running Problems
- How to Avoid and Treat Muscle Cramps
- The Emotional Side of Running Injuries
Running Videos
Check out these short running-related videos to help improve your running.
