Why now is the best time to start running

Top tips by runner and physiotherapist Nazleen Reed, Ultimate Performance Lifestyle Ltd

I have been a regular runner in the past and have run for fun, completed half marathons and tough mudders, ran with a buddy and tried with a buggy. However, my running has been on pause over the last 2 years due to having two babies close together. I am keen to get back into it and understand how hard it is to get out for that first run! There are so many benefits to running and here I share my top 5 reasons:

1. You'll burn calories fast. Need help losing that extra lockdown weight? Get running! You'll burn roughly 100 calories for each mile you run.

2. It'll improve your wellbeing. Running will help with your mental health. It can control stress and boost the body's ability to deal with existing mental tension.

3. It's inexpensive! One of the great things about running is that it’s something that nearly everyone can afford. All you need is a pair of trainers and some running gear.

4. Running helps you sleep. There is solid evidence that exercise does, in fact, help you fall asleep more quickly and will improve your sleep quality too.

5. Boost your immune system. Running will boost white blood cells and antibodies, which are both important in your immune health and fighting off disease, which is so important right now.

As a Physiotherapist I know how important it is to start off gently so I have put together some great top tips for you to help you get started:

1. If you are a beginner and have never ran before then the 'Couch to 5km' is a great method to use. It is a designed plan to introduce running to your body in a safe and controlled way.

2. Do some strength and conditioning exercises twice a week - this could be Pilates, Yoga or a gym session. Incorporating this type of exercise into your running plan will reduce risk of injury.

3. Eat 30 minutes before your run - something nutritious like fruit, malt loaf or oats. I often have a slice of peanut butter on toast. And you don't need loads of water - one glass will be just fine.

4. Try running without earphones and take in the scenery, noise and smells around you. For many years I ran to music, until one day I forgot my earphones and after the run I felt more relaxed and tranquil. Go on, try it!

5. Run for fun! Don’t put pressure on yourself to run and reach a certain target as this can put you off the whole experience. Many years ago I was training for Peterborough’s half marathon and I felt so pressured to train that I got to the point where I wasn't enjoying it. Then one day I told myself there was no pressure to do the event and the next day I got up early and went out for my best run I had done in months - and I really enjoyed it.

Have I inspired you to put your trainers on and get out there? To help with your strength and conditioning exercises I have created a few videos “Pilates for runners” for you. They are just 10-15 minutes sessions to assist your body to keep strong and prevent injuries.

Find them on our facebook page here: http://bit.ly/UPLPilatesForRunners

Email: contact@upl.life

Nazleen Reed Bsc (Hons) MCSP HCPC is a Charted Physiotherapist, Pilates Teacher, Founder & Director of UPL. Visit www.upl.life