Recently I wrote an article to summarise my two years of running (you can find the link to the article at the bottom of the page). What started as a means to improve energy levels, led to me finding a new passion. A passion for running! A great deal of this success I have to attribute to a good start with the running experience, so in order to give back, I want to provide a few running tips for beginners.

Below are just a few tips which I found very useful and have tested with great results on myself.

Tip Number 1 - Make running fun!

If you are lacking pleasure / satisfaction after each run, there is a good chance you are doing something wrong. Start with attaching purpose to your running. Mine was to get extra energy, you may be looking to lose weight, have time for yourself, to be outdoors more, etc. once you develop a clear WHY? the rest will follow.

Tip Number 2 - There is a correct way to run!

You've bought a new pair of shoes, laced them up and ran out the door - how many people have done this? Ever consider spending a little time finding out how best to approach running? A few weeks back, I met with a friend of mine at a birthday party. He was describing how tired and exhausted he felt after 10 minute runs. I suggested he slows down his pace. He took my advice. Two weeks later, we met again. He said that now, he feels energised after his runs and is slowly extending the distance.

Find ways to make the transition from non-runner to runner which will bring you more enjoyment and better results. Most importantly, help to stay injury free.

Tip Number 3 - Warm up and warm down!

The two key phases to each run. First, the warm up. Don't worry, it's not some fancy, odd looking stretches. A warm up is comprised of a fast paced walk - that's it. Before starting to run, spend at least 5 minutes walking. Guess what? A warm down is the same. At the end of each run walk for at least 5 minutes at a quick pace. Do just this and you will reduce chances of injury and reduce post run muscle soreness.

There are numerous other running tips beginners will benefit from (find 4 more by clicking here). By mastering only a few, you will make your running experience more enjoyable and safe. Some will require time to develop whilst others can be implemented within minutes. Don't worry about doing everything at once. Take small steps and in no time, the results will be visible. So, go out and try these running tips for beginners yourself! Go and run!