Let’s be frank, starting something new is rarely easy, especially when it comes to exercise or fitness. Something like running can seem intimidating, uncomfortable, even a little miserable if you’ve been out of the game for a while…or never felt like you were in it to begin with. But here’s the truth most people overlook:
You don’t need to be fast. You don’t need fancy shoes. You don’t even need to enjoy every step. What you do need is a starting point, a little structure, and some support along the way.
If you've ever told yourself “I should run” but never quite stuck with it, keep reading. Whether you're chasing a 5K finish line or just trying to build a consistent routine, these simple, and actionable tips will meet you where you're at and help you take those first few steps confidently.
That’s what I wish more people heard. There’s this myth that you need to be fit, fast, or motivated every day before you even try lacing up. The truth? The hardest part of running isn’t the running, it’s getting started and pushing past the first few miserable runs.
If you’ve been thinking about giving running a shot, whether for the first time or the first time in a while, this post is your green light.
You don’t need to run a mile nonstop on day one. In fact, you shouldn’t. A walk-jog routine is the best way to build momentum without burning out or getting hurt. Try this:
That’s it. No pressure to perform. Just build the habit of showing up. Simple isn’t sexy but it works, and it works because it protects your joints and lets your body adapt. It gives you a nice runway to build confidence, which you’ll need more than cardio. And lastly, it helps you look forward to running instead of dreading it by breaking up the monotony of it.
Consistency beats intensity every time.
Some people aim for a 5K. Others just want to clear their head for 20 minutes. Either is valid. Write your goal down. Keep it in front of you. And if you miss a day? That doesn’t erase progress. You’re playing the long game.
The first step is starting to build consistency, it’s time to fine-tune how you train. Next week, in Part 2, I’ll cover simple strategies to help you run smarter, not harder. Help you to keep progressing, avoid injuries, and actually enjoy the process.
