r/BeginnersRunning

I'm relatively new and get bored so fast

This was only my 7th run since starting. This is the most I’ve run to this point, so I don’t really have anything to compare with myself. Is this an okay starting point? I understand that it’s good to have even done it in the first place, but I’m curious as to how good/not so good I am to start out.

If you think back, can you still remember your very first run?

Mine was almost 30 years ago. Looking back, I remember simply heading out the door, going once around the block, and then being completely out of breath. Pretty unspectacular, really. But once running started to become genuinely enjoyable, one question immediately followed: And now what?

Where is all of this actually supposed to lead?

We often scroll through social media, and I notice that it's almost exclusively the big things that show up. Marathon medals, ultras of over 100 km, screenshots of insane pace times. I can well understand why you might quickly think that, as a runner, you have to have something epic planned right away. But you don't. I really mean that. For me, things went quite differently back then. At first, I didn't think about a marathon at all. I simply set myself whatever was realistic as the next step. First I wanted to get through a run without a walking break. Then 5 km in one go. Then 10 km. Eventually the half marathon got hold of me, and, honestly, the first marathon then came almost of its own accord, without my having planned it much at all.

What truly matters for beginner runners, though, are the intermediate steps. Anyone who sets their sights straight on the huge mountain usually runs into one of two problems. Either the body doesn't cooperate, because tendons and joints simply need more time to adapt than the mind would like. Or the motivation fades at some point, because the goal seems so far away that you feel you'll never get there. With small stages, on the other hand, you get regular moments of success, you treat your body more gently, and the pressure is off. I'm glad to be here! Best, Ulli

I started running when it was nice outside everyday. Now that fall is here, I will have to run in the rain and have some questions.

Do I need waterproof shoes? What are your favourite hacks for running in the rain?

Hey! Early 30s and I’m relatively fit - I play group sport once a week, and gym a couple of times a week but I’ve never been a runner. Ive never properly given it a chance… and I really want to. I have a goal of doing a 5k, that’s it!

I basically want some positive stories! I have flat feet / collapsed arches due to genetics, which is why I’ve put it off as I got shin splints last time (but honestly it’s probably from starting too quick and not stretching).

Ive had my gait analysed and got myself some proper trainers and fully intend to warm up / cool down and take it slow.

but would love to hear people tell me “I have the same feet maybe even worse and I did it! You can too!” Haha

I have my first half marathon on Sunday and I've just gotten over a cold. I'm feeling better now, but I didn't run while sick so it's been 8 days since my last run. Planning on testing the waters with an easy run tomorrow. Not sure if I should give up my bib for the half or not. Thoughts?