i'm not a good runner at all, but what i want to get started, how can i? got any tips?

Question

I really want to start running more and just be more fit and the running will help me for my sport, but I've never really been a great runner, and I have asthma which makes it harder. I think the main thing is just that I have pretty low endurance. The last time I ran a mile, it took me like 11 minutes!! I know it takes dedication, but what can I do to get my running career off to a good start? Do you have any tips about things like nutrition or exercises to help me with my running? Thanks!

Answer 1

I am right there with ya girl! I too suffer from asthma....they can send a man to the moon but can't cure it, right? I too wanted to start running and have since then become quite successful at it. You should start out slow and work your way up. Try walking for 5 minutes then running for 3 then walking for 5 and then running for 5 and then cool down with walking for 5 minutes. Do this routine 3-5 times for a week...and then the next week try walking for 5 minutes then running for 5 then walking for 5 and running for another 5 and then cooling down for five. Just gradually build onto your run times but always remember to warm up and cool down. If you just stop running cold turkey your body recieves negative stress...so cool down by simply walking for 5 minutes. Good luck and I applaud you for trying to overcome the asthma!

Answer 2

Wear good running shoes. Don't run on cement. Build up distance gradually. Go 1/4 mile every other day, rather than try a mile at once and take 3 days to recover. Use you asthma inhaler prior to running. Avoid running in cold weather, but keep a scarf over your mouth if you do. That will cause less bronchospasm.
Wear bright clothing if you are near traffic. Carry a cell phone and water. Don't carry your iPod. This is not the time to listen to music.

Answer 3

This might sound wierd, but it worked for me. I hate to hear the sound of myself breathing hard and gasping. I put on some music so that I can't hear myself and I am able to go alot longer. I would listen to my favorite station cuz sometimes they talk about interesting stuff that gets my mind off the running. Also right in the middle and right after your run, stretch while your muscles are hot and it makes it easier the next run. I wait about 30 minutes before drinking water. Also I found that when I pick my legs up high while I am running, instead of trying to run faster or further- it makes it easier the next times you run. Also, this might sound gross but it helps me to spit every now and then after I am running for a while. Really. I hope all of this helps. I thought I couldn't run for very long, but I proved myself wrong.