GETTING A
RUNNING
START R
by Susan Neuhalfen
unning has its advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, it’s hard on the body. It jars joints and just leaves you feeling achy all day if you don’t do it enough. On the other hand, it’s a very quick way to lose weight and a great motivator. It is also addictive, and once that addiction is discovered by a runner, the euphoria is unmatched.
For those just starting to run, however,
the entire thought can be overwhelming. Luckily thousands of people have taken the time to create the best equipment
available to make learning to run easier than ever.
Here are a few first steps to make that transition to running:
feeling like you are running forever like a half-marathon or full marathon. Lucky for you, there are several apps entitled “Couch to 5k” for the beginning runner. Many are free and some work better than others depending on the type of phone used. A few recommended include: 5K Runner • C25K Zombies, Run! • 5K Run.
feet, or even their heels. It varies, and
there are shoes designed specifically for
how you run. The right shoe can mean the difference between sore hips and ankles and feeling great. While you’re at it get some good, cushy running socks.
GPS Watch - Heart Monitor It’s important to keep an eye on your heart rate when you run, which is why you should invest in a quality GPS watch designed specifically for runners. Runner’s World lists the Apple Watch Series 4, Coros Apex Multisport, Polar Advantage, Garmin Fenix 5 Plus, and the Suunto 9 as just a few of the more advanced GPS watches for runners in 2019. Couch To 5K Apps
The Right Shoes
Signing up for a run is a great way
Don’t just purchase any run-of-the-mill tennis shoe – go to a shoe store that specializes in running shoes, and let the specialist watch you run or walk. Runners may run on their toes, the outside of the
to motivate yourself, and there is no
better motivator than a 5K (3.1 miles). Unlike a 1 mile fun run, it’s just long enough to be a challenge without 20 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE
| JULY 2020
A Good Place To Run Finding a good trail is a great motivator.
Google “running trails near me,” and there will be plenty. You can also look in the
pages of this magazine, as we have put
together a map of nearby trails and other running spots.
www.FlowerMoundMagazine.com
