Easy ways to add running into your life

So maybe you ARE already a runner or maybe you've only ever thought about running or maybe you've never thought about running but someone you know is totally in love with running, these few tips will help you add running into your life!

I could list off all the amazing benefits that running does for your mind and body, but I'll leave that to you to figure out once you begin!

1. Try a run/walk ratio. I did this when I came back from an Achilles Tendinitis injury and it really helped me ease back into running and not re-injure myself. I also did a similar technique when I was training for my first half-marathon. I would choose a telephone pole ahead of where I was right then and say to myself to 'just run until I get there' then I can walk/ take a break/ stop the work-out all together. This really helped build-up my confidence too as I soon found that I was able to go longer (most of the time) without stopping and could build up to running a farther distance/time, while reaping more benefits from running!

2. Set a goal. Whether that goal is to run a 5k, 10k, marathon, be able to run a mile without stopping, become healthier, lose a few pounds etc. I've found that working towards a goal helps me stay motivated and accomplished when I reach it. I began running on the treadmill (which I really loved) to simply get into shape and lose a few pounds that I had put on when I was injured with a torn meniscus. Once I felt myself starting to get in shape (and convinced by a friend who had recently started running), I signed up for my first half-marathon (a bucketlist thing) and since then, I've kinda always enjoyed training for something and participating in a training cycle too!

3. Buy some new fun running gear. Whether it's new running shoes, shirt, pants, iphone holder to play your music, watch, etc. A new piece of gear that you really REALLY want to try out can help motivate you to begin running (even if it is just a day or two per week). I can't explain how excited I was to begin using my new Garmin watch when I got it- I had to test it out (even when it was almost hurricane-like weather out).

4. Make a plan to fit your run in that works for you. This doesn't necessarily mean that you have to do your run at the exact same time every day, but it does mean to hold yourself accountable to your runs (at least when you are getting started). Creating a habit out of something like running takes a few weeks and until it becomes more than just a chore/task you need to make sure to fit it in your schedule. Whether that means planning to run during your lunchbreak and not letting anything come up to deter you from that lunchtime run or strapping on your sneakers as soon as you get home to do your run before you get sucked into anything else at home. Make time and hold yourself accountable. 

So there you have it! A few easy ways to add some running into your life. While starting a new schedule is hard and keeping yourself injury-free is easier said than done, but listen to your body- if it feels like you're doing too much or running feels too hard, slow-down, take some walk breaks and be patient. The best things come to those who wait :) 

How do you add running into your life?

Any tips/tricks to begin running or work towards a big goal?