6 Ways To Make Your First Run Suck Less

There is no way around it. For the beginner, running can simply suck.  

Following weeks of self-talk, “you can do it” quotes and pinning images of your favourite celebrities looking their Sunday best and jogging with ease, you set out to join the running cult. But before you know it your chest is burning, you acquire four unwanted blisters and are finding yourself pretending to tie up your shoelaces just so you can take a break. The conclusion? Running is just not for you.  

Before you hang up your marathon dreams before they have even started here are 6 simple rules to apply to your first run that will switch your attitude back from “can’t do” to “just do it”.  

Pace yourself 

Your first run isn’t going to turn you into a marathon jogger, so unless you plan on passing out or never going back for a second shot, know your limits. If you find that you are out of breath within the first few minutes then you should be slowing down your pace. Ideally, your breathing should be under control unless you are going up a hill or increasing your speed to a run. Your fitness and cardio will improve over time not over night.  

Motivate with music 

“This is too hard. My legs burn. I’m out of breath. I’ve gone far enough”. Sound familiar? Drown out the negative thoughts and motivate yourself with the right playlist. Set a new playlist on a weekly basis and choose songs with a beat you can run to. Not sure where to start? The Refinery has done the work for you here. 

 Sometimes a new song could be all the motivation you need to hit the pavement.  

…But stay hands-free  

Holding an iPhone or water bottle in your hands while you run is not only distracting but will mess with your gait and arm swings. Invest in an arm strap for your phone or turn to innovative gym wear such as the PocJox range which features inbuilt pockets for your phone and other valuables. 

Turn to a water bottle belt for your hydration needs. Yes.. there is such a thing. Here is the proof.  

Avoid the chafing... 

When it comes to running in summer, the heat combined with the wrong sportswear is all but guaranteed to end in chafing. You can avoid this by wearing leggings, which can also offer the added benefit of improving your performance and speeding up your recovery. For more on the scientifically backed results on compression leggings, see here.  

If you prefer to opt for a pair of shorts, ensure you invest in proper running shorts that are designed with moisture wicking materials for your comfort. 

Socks matter  

Think running without socks is the only way to cause blisters? This is a big no. In fact, the wrong socks are just as likely to cause painful sores and stop you in your tracks. Opt for synthetic sports socks. If the word synthetic freaks you out just remember, these are designed to draw moisture away from your feet and synthetic is not as scary as athletes foot.  

Finally, JUST GET OVER YOURSELF  

Becoming a runner is a journey, one which takes time, patience, dedication and sticking to it. Leave your ego at the door and embrace the journey. The minute you realise that the only competition you have is with yourself is the moment that your journey will become enjoyable.   

…and  no, no one cares what you look like when you run. Other runners are focused on their pace and the people driving past you… well... they are focused on the road.