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Kickstart Your Running Journey

Friday, 22nd March 2024

Simple Steps to Success

As the 2024 running season fast approaches, running seems to be having its moment. With major running events selling out in record time around Australia, it seems more people are lacing up their shoes and hitting the pavement than ever before. Embarking on a running journey can feel daunting, but it’s one of the most straightforward and rewarding ways to improve your health and well-being. Whether you’re aiming to get fitter, clear your mind, or achieve personal goals, running offers a versatile path to reaching your targets and connecting with like-minded individuals within the running community.

Before you embark on your running journey, it is first important to anchor yourself in a powerful “why.” Are you running towards a healthier version of yourself, a stronger mindset, or perhaps a personal goal that you’ve always dreamt of achieving? At PEAK, we always start with “why” – knowing your why will not only help you to get started with your running journey, but will also ensure you stay committed to your training, even when the going gets tough!

Set Your Foundation

Begin with Manageable Goals

Start small to avoid burnout and injury. If running feels too challenging at first, alternate between walking and jogging. It’s about building endurance and confidence, step by step. At PEAK, our coaches are here to support you by creating tailored running programs to suit your needs.

Listen to Your Body

It is important to be cognisant of how your body feels throughout your running journey and pay close attention to what your body tells you. Aches and pains are signals. If something hurts, give yourself time to recover. Overdoing it won’t speed up your progress; it might hinder it.

Incorporate Strength and Mobility Training into your Running Programme

Running isn’t just about cardiovascular fitness. Strengthening your muscles and improving your mobility can boost your performance and decrease your risk of injury. See one of our PEAK coaches for advice on which exercises may be right for you!

Stay Motivated

Set Achievable Milestones

Having clear, realistic goals helps maintain focus and motivation. No victory is too small in the world of running. Every step forward is a step in the right direction. Celebrate each achievement, no matter how small, and use it as a stepping stone to the next one.

Goal Setting for First-Time Runners

For those new to running, setting clear, achievable goals is crucial. Start with simple objectives like running for five minutes without stopping, gradually increasing your time or distance each week. It’s important to create a blend of short-term milestones and long-term goals. This approach keeps motivation high and provides a tangible sense of progress. Remember, the aim is personal growth, not competition. Every runner’s journey is unique, so focus on your own achievements and pace. By setting realistic goals, you’ll build confidence and resilience, laying a solid foundation for a lifelong running habit.

This year, PEAK is entering a team in the Sunshine Coast marathon festival in August! This event is open to anyone and includes a full marathon, half marathon and 10km event, offering a great opportunity to set yourself a running goal to work towards.

Find a Community

Running may be a solo venture, but the journey need not be lonely. Connect with local running groups or online communities. The shared experiences, encouragement, and tips can be invaluable. PEAK’s Stride Club offers a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and is open to runners of all ages and ability levels. For more information about Stride Club, click here.

Keep It Interesting

Change your routes, run in different environments, and occasionally set fun challenges for yourself to keep the excitement alive. Running shouldn’t feel like a chore.

Support for Your Journey

Remember, starting to run is about progress, not perfection. Everyone’s journey is different, and it’s okay to have ups and downs. At PEAK, we’re here to support not just your physical health but your overall well-being. Whether you’re taking your first steps or aiming for a personal best, we offer guidance and care to help you achieve your running goals. To start your running journey with one of our coaches, click here.

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