Ok, so you signed up for your first race, maybe even your first marathon and you are kinda freaking out inside.
What did you get yourself into? And you are going to shake your friend for making you sign up.
Don’t fret, you got this. This is the start of a beautiful journey you are about to embark on.
Before you start, here are a few Do’s and Don’ts before starting your journey.
The video of this blog post, is included below for your viewing pleasure..
- Don’t PANIC! It is very normal to feel a bit overwhelmed right now. But you have so much time to prepare for your race and you have support, right here on this website.Just Relax and take is one step at a time, literally.
- DON’T try to do too much too soon. DO NOT make the mistake of thinking more is better. Increasing your mileage or intensity too quickly puts you at a greater risk for injury.So, just follow your training schedule. You’ll have plenty of time to train, to challenge yourself, to get faster, to run long and longer.
- DO be patient. If you are new to this running thing or have never done long distance running, allow your mind and body to adjust.It’ll take about 4-6 weeks for you to start seeing changes in your running. You may not be able to run the entire distance or time at first. Its completely fine to take walking breaks. But it DOES get easier, so stick with it and in another month you’ll be referring to 3 miles as a “short run.”
- DO utilize your support system. Whether you are training with a team, a coach, virtually or on your own. Please always contact someone in your network for any questions regarding training. Remember that there are no unimportant or stupid questions. I’ve heard every question about training/injuries/fears/bodily functions.So don’t be shy or embarrassed to ask.
Those are your essential do’s and don’ts for long distance running.
Feel free to leave your comments with any questions you have on starting out.
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