As you may know by now Running is my jam! I have been a runner for most of my life but when I left school and approached my early 20’s running was most definitely NOT on my priority list! So for most of my early 20’s I had a relatively sedentary existence, possibly getting to the odd yoga class, running every now and then and the occasional dance class but no ‘real’ commitment.

Now I’m thirty-something and exercise (especially running) is part of my life……in fact I think it rules my life (in a good way!) along with health food and athleisure….haha! However, I remember how hard it was to get over that early 20’s slump…..wondering how ‘they all do it’ and this feeling of fear in a way…..what if i collapse in a heap? what if I can’t get through the mental barrier? what if someone sees me struggling?…..maybe I’ll just reach for that glass of pinot grigio instead!

Anyway, what I’m trying to say is YES I’ve been there and I hope I can share with you some of my tips to help you start running! I constantly hear people say ‘i’m not a runner’ or ‘runnings not for me’….it makes me so sad! I want to ignite that running flame in all of you!

Top tips:

• Take it slow: I know you’re excited about your first run but don’t get ahead of yourself! Just set yourself a small distance (4-6kms) and build on this distance gradually. I remember when I first started to get back into running and I could barely run the length of the harbour bridge….so set yourself a small (ish) distance and a nice easy pace (but still enough to work up a sweat!)

• Add another exercise or two: Running is addictive (believe me!) so it’s so easy to just stick to running and nothing else. If you really want to see an improvement in your running add in some strength work and some stretch work. I found that when I started personal training last year my running improved dramatically and I felt stronger on the track. Yoga/pilates/barre is also great to implement some really good stretching and loosening of the muscles……just remember to take it easy with this one. If you are not used to yoga/pilates/barre you don’t need to be doing the splits in a week…..along with running it’s a natural progression.

• Keep it interesting: Don’t just run the same old track day in and day out…..it’s not only boring but your body will tend to plateau. I have my standard 8km in the park, hill sprints and a long distance run.

• Look after yourself: Make sure you give your body time to recover. Allocate rest days but also do some work with a foam roller and stretching bands. If you are particularly tight make sure you get a massage or see a sports physio to ease some of the tightness and prevent injury.

• Nourish: As with any exercise you embark on make it a holistic experience and nourish your body accordingly. Eat whole food with lots of vegetables, protein and fibre. The only supplement I use is a vegan protein powder which I use in smoothies, protein balls, smoothie bowls and so on.

• Enjoy it: I always look to running as a way for me to relax! As soon as you get the bug you will feel the same I promise! x x

I would love to hear your feedback and if you have any running tips for me! I want my site to be a place where people can be free to share their opinions and learn from each other!

Wearing: Bonds Sport