Hey Ladies! Want to Get Started Running for Exercise? We Have Five Steps to Get You Started.

Running 101: 

5 Steps to Get Started

Ready to take that first scary, exciting step toward becoming a runner, but you’re not quite sure where to start? We’ve got you! That first step out the door can be intimidating, but the steps listed below will make your journey to becoming a runner a complete success. Zooma Women’s Race Series is right there with you on your journey!

Step 1
Sign up for a 5K race. Say what? Yes, you read that right. There’s nothing quite as motivating as having a huge goal on your calendar - talk about “holding your feet to the fire”! Don’t wait and don’t overthink it. Find a 5K scheduled to take place around two months from now - and make the commitment! Tell a few friends who will encourage and help keep you accountable. They may even want to join you! Download our Zooma 5K Training Plans and viola! You’re on your way to becoming a runner.

Step 2

Get some good shoes. Head to your local running store and they’ll fit you properly for a pair of shoes that are right for you. Seriously, don’t skimp on shoes. Your feet and body will thank you - and you may avoid excess wear or stain from ill-fitting shoes. Also be sure to wear something COMFORTABLE!  When you run it feels 20 degrees warmer than it actually is, so moisture-wicking fabrics are best. Do NOT overdress. The Lotta Breeze Skirt, Redemption Shorties, and Take-Five Tank from Skirt Sports are all great options.  

Step 3

Decide where and when you’ll run. On a treadmill? Around the neighborhood? In the morning? Midday? Evening? There’s no wrong answer here. The journey to becoming a runner is dependent on what works best for YOU. No matter what you choose, running safety should be your number one priority. If you’re heading outside, plan your route ahead of time, train with a friend or running group, and if you’re running solo be sure to tell someone where you’re headed and how long you plan to be gone. Pro tip: schedule your runs on your calendar just as you would any other important appointment. This will help you stay consistent and be accountable to yourself! 

Step 4

Run! Actually start with a nice brisk walk! Then, add in some comfortable run intervals. This is an important tip if you are a beginning runner. Aim to alternate two minutes of walking with 10-to-30 seconds of light jogging. Repeat these run/walk intervals for around 15-to-20 minutes to start, twice each week. On the weekend, plan for longer session intervals around 20-to-30 minutes. Gradually increase your running time and decrease walking intervals as you progress. Do not focus on your pace! Becoming a runner is about consistency, not speed. Run slowly enough so that you’re able to hold a conversation of a few words at a time. Whenever you find yourself out of breath, simply walk for a bit. Always give yourself grace and remember - walking is a wonderful exercise too!

Step 5

Stay consistent. Read this carefully - this is ZOOMA Women’s Race Series’ most important tip for readers. Without question, there will be days when you don’t feel like training. You may simply be tired, had a long day at work, or just don’t feel like it. On those days, it’s important to do your best to make time for a walk or take longer than usual walking intervals. Once you take the first step and get out there, chances are you’ll start to feel better. You may even run (walk) longer than you thought you could. When you push past your own resistance and complete a run you didn’t think you could complete - the feeling of accomplishment is amazing! 

Over time, and with consistent and persistent efforts, running will become a healthy habit and your body will start to crave it. You’ll notice how your mood improves when you’ve run versus when you don’t. Like many things in life, achieving your running goals won’t always be easy, but it will be worth it. Get out there ladies - and just start running!