Find Your World Major
Last Monday marked the 128th Boston Marathon, and officially 10 years of Tracksmith.
A decade ago, we debuted at the world’s oldest annual marathon, one of six world major courses. But, not all runners are jumping headfirst into 26.2 miles of sweat, tears, and battling thoughts of “Why did I do this?” and “How can I make this my entire life?”
… At least, not yet anyway.
For those of you who have found themselves bitten by the running bug or are looking for ways to test your own boundaries–we got you covered. And let us be the first to say:
Welcome. We’ve been waiting for you.
THREE TIPS FOR BEGINNER RUNNERS
- GEAR
It can be overwhelming to navigate the endless Google search pages of jargon detailing how to assemble your perfect running kit.
Our tip: Keep it basic.
Sports bra, top, bottoms, blister socks, trainers, and hat.
Don’t worry about terms like “carbon-plated” or “speed shoe.” Instead invest in a pair of daily trainers suitable for the terrain you will be running on. As you progress through your running journey, these terms can become more relevant based on your goals, but no need to worry about that now.
TIP: Visit a local run store to get a free gait analysis on what types of shoes best fit your running/walking style.
Comfort is key, but feeling cute never hurts. It’s been scientifically proven a cute run-fit makes your time on the tread 10000x more enjoyable.
- MINDSET
This sport is more than just physical fitness. It’s mental fitness too.
It’s the question of–I wonder how far I could run if I didn’t have an inner voice begging me to stop?
When moments on your run feel difficult or when it feels impossible to get up and go, remind yourself it is during these times when growth happens. This is an opportunity to callous your mind by proving that you can do hard things.
TIPS FOR WHEN IT FEELS HARD: Run with a friend, put on a good podcast/playlist, run to a local coffee shop, repeat a motivating mantra to yourself as a loved one would.
Above all, remember comparison is the thief of joy. If your inner dialogue begins shifting in this direction, remind yourself to leave your ego at home and run the mile you’re in.
- START
To quote a competitor of ours, but someone who has managed to nail it on the head: Just do it.
Know that your first handful of runs may be tough, especially if you’re new to the sport. But also know it does get easier with consistency and proper fueling and hydration.
TIP: Don’t worry about pace. Set a timer and go. Try to increase the time by 5 to 10 minutes each week.
FOR THE LOVE OF RUNNING
If running was easy, everyone would be doing it. It takes a certain type of person to willingly put themselves in an uncomfortable state time and time again.
It may not be pretty (though, when is running ever?), but baby steps are still steps in the right direction.
We all had to start somewhere. And now it’s your turn.
Visit Tracksmith.com to learn more on how to become an amateur runner. For those in Boston, visit sign up for our community newsletter for local running events.
