Running FAQs

Warming Up

For new runners, the experience of running is sometimes hard enough – they don’t want to ask everyone around them questions that they might not know the answers to. If you’ve recently taken up the sport of running and noticed some things that don’t seem clear to you, you’ll probably want to turn to some online running FAQs (frequently asked questions). Here are some of the frequently asked questions by beginning runners.

What is the best way to stretch?

Stretching can be useful, but you’ll have to listen to your own body if you want to make sure you’re stretching properly. Some runners love to stretch vigorously as a warm up; others don’t even feel like it’s necessary at all. If you’re going to stretch, make sure that you stretch crucial muscles like your calves, your quadriceps, and your groin area. Make sure to loosen up before a run and don’t necessarily go from 0 to 60 right away.

Should I run outside or on a treadmill?

Good question – what do you think? It’s really up to you, but the best answer is usually to focus on whatever challenges you enough to keep up the daily habit. For some people, running outdoors in freezing temperatures is simply not an option, and they don’t mind turning to the treadmill. For others, running outside is the only way to run. Try them both to see what makes you feel the best. The key is that “going for a run” should actually sound like an exhilarating activity rather than a simple routine.

Do I need special shoes?

No, you don’t need them – you could run barefoot if you really wanted. As long as you have a decent pair of comfortable running shoes or tennis shoes, you should be fine. The more you run, the more you might find yourself desiring an expensive pair of well-cushioned shoes, but that’s not important on Day One. Just concentrate on the important thing here: lacing those shoes up on a regular basis!

Is running always this hard?

It depends on what you mean by “hard.” If running is exhausting for you, you might want to bring down your intensity a little bit; the last thing you want is to dread every single run you go on. But if you haven’t been running in a while and go out for a mile run today, you might get some side stitches. Ultimately, running won’t be easy – otherwise you wouldn’t be accomplishing very much. Learn to relish in the difficult runs, because you’ll feel proud of yourself for having completed them. If running ever gets too easy, make sure to make it at least a little harder.

Photo Credits: lululemon athletica

Originally posted 2009-05-15 05:19:43.

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