How to Make Running Suck Less: My Top Tips for Beginner Runners, by Chris Cammarano on YouTube. 7 min 30 s.
- Video length
- 7 min 30 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes per session
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 7
What you need
Steps
Slow down until you can speak in full sentences while you jog. If you are gasping, you are going too fast, so ease back to a walk until your breathing settles.
Stay flexible about when and how you run. A short 20 minute jog still counts, so fit runs around your day instead of forcing a strict schedule.
Start cheap. Use trainers and clothes you already own, then buy better shoes once you know you will keep running.
Pick a beginner plan such as Couch to 5K and follow it three times a week. The plan tells you exactly how many minutes to run and walk each session.
Add variety across the week: one easy run, one session with short faster bursts, and one longer slow run. Keep the easy runs truly easy.
Fuel your runs with a light snack like a banana about an hour before you head out. Drink water before and after, especially in warm weather.
Enter a 5k race a few weeks ahead to give yourself a goal. Train towards finishing it comfortably rather than chasing a fast time.
Tips and common mistakes
Warm up with five minutes of brisk walking before every run and cool down with a slow walk after.
Run facing oncoming traffic and wear something bright if you are out on roads.
Sharp or one-sided pain is a signal to stop, while general muscle tiredness is normal at first.
Take at least one rest day between runs so your legs can recover.
Questions
How often should a complete beginner run?
Three runs a week is plenty at the start, with a rest day in between. Give yourself at least four weeks before adding extra sessions.
What if I cannot run for a full minute?
Run for 20 or 30 seconds and walk the rest of the interval. Repeat until you can hold a slow jog for a whole minute, then build from there.
Do I need special shoes to start?
Not at first. Any supportive pair of trainers works, but replace worn shoes once you are running regularly to protect your knees and shins.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
