I love to talk to new runners.  They have a lot of questions and are totally enthusiastic.

Many new runners, however,  also suffer from the “should’s”.

They feel they “should” be faster.  They “should” be able to run more than a minute at a time.  They “should” be in better shape.   They “should” not run races because they are too slow. They “should” not call themselves a runner, they just jog.

They “should” all over themselves!  A new runner “should” do just one thing.  Just run.

Here are some tips for new runners or even seasoned runners who need to up their game.

• To be able to run farther or longer, add 10 minutes to your current run once a week.  Or if you are doing a run/walk interval – add 30 seconds to your running intervals.
• To get in “better shape” set a consistent schedule of 3 or 4 runs a week.  Mileage doesn’t matter at this point, just get out and get consistent.
• To be able to run faster, increase your speed for 20 seconds every few minutes.  Or pick up the pace to the next street corner.
• To get over “race fright” – sign up for a race.  Odds are you will NOT be the last person to cross the finish line.  And if you are, trust me, you’ll get the biggest cheer of the day!
• When you run, you are a RUNNER.  Even if you run an 18 minute mile you are a runner.  Say “I’m a runner” out loud a few times.  See, it’s awesome to call yourself a runner.

Now go run!

Keli 🙂