HEALTH

Start from the beginning

Before preparing for what may seem like a marathon, see how far you can run without any training—and how fast. You have to know where to start before you can work your way higher, so clocking a full mile will let you know where you stand.

Set a goal

In order to get better, you have to have something to work for. Anywhere between seven and ten minutes is a respectable time for a new runner and is easy to achieve with a li’l work. Be realistic when picking your goal time, though. Going from twelve minutes to seven might be more than you’re ready for right now.

Get going!

You won’t get any faster by just sitting around, so get out and start running. Begin by running three to four times a week, a whole mile each time. Each week pick up the pace a little bit and eventually you will see your time dropping significantly. Once you feel yourself getting more comfortable, start running five to six days a week to build up your endurance.

Working so hard for something so far away may seem a bit silly, but once you get on the start line you will be amazed at how confident you’ll feel. And when you blow by those others in your class, it will all be worth it.

And one more thing…

Whenever you can, lace up those sneaks and tackle the elements—outside. Treadmill running is great to get you in shape, but running a mile on a treadmill and running a mile outside on the sidewalk or your school’s track is an entirely different thing. If it’s raining or freezing cold, feel free to step on the treadmill. Otherwise, hit the street, sweetie!

by Ana D'Ambrogi | 2/1/2016