A GUIDE TO RUNNING // PART ONE

I guess you could say I'm a bit of an expert. HA! Okay, I'm just kidding. I don't think I'm really an expert in anything. Running, however, was definitely a huge factor in my weight loss success though so I feel like I sort of know what I'm talking about. 

Running seems to be one of those things that you either hate or love. I never thought I'd be a runner, but for some reason it just speaks to me. When I was dancing, my mum encouraged me to walk everyday and somehow it stuck. I wish I had that kind of motivation now because every morning I was up at about 6.30am and I'd be out the door. No excuses. No questions asked. Sigh, that was the life! I gradually worked my way up to running and I loved it. Alright, I'm not sure I totally loved the running part but I loved how it made me feel and I really enjoyed how fit I became.

When I decided to get my ass into gear, I knew running would be the key. It's the one type of exercise that I've stuck at and I know for sure has improved my fitness. It wasn't all sunshine and rainbows though. My first run sucked. I'm not even sure I can call it as a run as I wouldn't have gone more than 100m before I stopped. It was a start though, and I figured that you'll never get anywhere if you don't start somewhere - even if it's at the bottom. 

As I know how hard it is to start, I thought I'd share a few tips that definitely helped me get out there and pounding the pavements. 

DRESS RIGHT.

I know that when you are red and puffy and there is sweat everywhere that the last thing you should care about is how you look, but what you wear is actually pretty important. Clothes can really make a difference to how well you work out and how much you push yourself. Having confidence to wear tight clothes when you first start out is hard, I know that from experience. But wearing baggy clothes can sometimes interfere with your performance. Whatever you do, make sure you are comfortable and you aren't wearing anything that's going to let you down. 

MUST HAVES:

An amazing sports bra - This is no joke. You've gotta look after your girls. Wearing an ill fitting bra can result in a pretty uncomfortable work out and the last thing you want is to spend the whole time holding them down or worrying about how you look. It's so worth investing in a good one. 

Running tights - When it comes to sweating and exercise, cotton isn't your friend. You should definitely go out and get yourself a good quality pair of leggings. And make sure they are tight! While baggy tops work, I don't think pants do. Having heaps of fabric swishing around while you're trying to run is not ideal, and while running tights can be a bit on the pricey side, they will definitely last awhile and help you to reach your goals.

I also prefer wearing more high waisted tights. But this is definitely a personal preference. For some reason, I've always a problem with pants slipping so this way I'm not spending my whole run pulling my pants up. They also hold everything in which is a bonus!

Running shoes - I guess this is a little self explanatory but I'm sure a lot of us are still running in old shoes. It's so important to look after your feet and legs especially because running isn't exactly the kindest exercise to that part of our body. Make sure you get fitted properly and ensure that your shoes are perfect for you.

I think the main thing is to make sure you are comfortable. Don't wear shorts if you know you're prone to chaffing (I definitely am) and if you aren't happy wearing a tight singlet, chuck on a t-shirt. It doesn't matter what other people think, you've got to be happy. You don't want anything to stop you from running and the right clothes can really make a difference.

MUSIC.

I actually didn't really get into music until lately. It's not that I don't like it (I love it!) but I struggle to run when the song is playing a different beat. Maybe it's silly, but my runs are always a lot better when I run in time to music. There's something about the tempo and hitting the beat that really gets me motivated. Since we bought Eddy the Treddy, I've had to go on a hunt for some music. Running on a treadmill can be super boring but I've found these playlists to be pretty helpful.

Running Low Tempo < 140 BPM  /  Cardio  /  Running High Tempo > 140 BPM

I always use Spotify when I'm seeking out music and it's actually pretty easy to find decent playlists. Some even say what tempo they are so you can match your speed to them! Hand right? Go have a look and see what you can find! It's also a great place to find new artists and you can even create your own playlists.

Once you've got yourself organised, there really is no excuse as to why you can't do it. Yes it will be hard, but at least you will look awesome, be comfortable and have tunes to get you through it. Stay tuned for Part Two! I'll be going over some running techniques and tips that helped me get to where I am today!