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: 3 Weeks to a 30 Minute Running Habit
- E-Course: 8-Week Beginner Running Program to Build Distance
- E-Course: 8-Week Beginner Running Program to Build Speed
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?
- Running for Weight Loss
- Best Foods for Runners
- Healthy Snacks for Runners
- Common Sports Nutrition Mistakes
- 7 Secrets of Skinny Runners
- Do I Need to Hydrate With Sports Drinks?
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
- 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?
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.
