If I had a time machine, I would travel back and tell my past self these things about running.
Why run? Running regularly is a great way to be ready for all kinds of activities that stress the heart and lungs, like bicycling, hiking, skiing, etc. With a base of running fitness, it will be easier to do these other things. Eventually running itself will start to feel good, but that will take some time.
It would be nice to be fast, but you’re not. You do not have world class running potential, nor national class, college class, or even high school varsity class. So to make running fun, you’ll need to set up your goals that make sense for you and keep you interested.
It would be nice to be able to run everyday, but you can’t. Your legs can’t take that much use and will break down.
Rest days are more important than training days. Your body must recover from the damage done in training in order to get stronger. Try not to run on consecutive days.
Find some other activities that you can enjoy, especially while you allow your body to recover from running. Swimming is the best for you.
Find other people and run with them.
Find scenic trails and run on them.
Find interesting events and sign up for them. This will keep you give you a reason to go outside for a run instead of doing something less productive.
Running helps keep you healthy. Consider it an investment in yourself.
To be fit, consistency in training is more important than intensity or duration. Three quick and easy runs per week can be enough.
Plan your training runs based on duration, not distance or speed.
Don’t get sick. Getting enough sleep seems to be the most important way to avoid illness.
It’s fine to run in the rain, being wet is OK as long as you stay warm.
Get “real” running socks, they’re worth it.
Run with a smile, most of the time.
