Celebrate National Running Day!

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Tomorrow,Wednesday, June 5th is National Running Day! For those who are already actively running take the time to explore new trails or run with your favorite running buddies. If you are new to the sport or want to use National Running Day as your first day trying it out check out some of the great tips below to help you get started. We all know that running is great for us physically but we also gain so much more mentally and emotionally. Tomorrow is all about feeling good and taking the time for yourself!

1. Focus on your feet: Running costs less than many other sports, but you do need a decent
pair of sneakers. Shop at your local specialty running store, where experts can help you start off on the right (and left) foot.

2. Start small: Think realistically every time you head out the door – no one expects you to
run like a pro from the get-go. Start out by alternating between short bursts of running and
walking, and build from there.

3. Find a running buddy: In the first few weeks, it’s important to make running a habit – so
turn to your friends for help! You can even run with your dog!

4. Diversify your portfolio: Running is not the only way to become a better runner. Ride your
bike, do yoga, or play basketball to improve your runs.

5. Listen to your body: Keep an eye on old injuries and common problem areas like shins and
knees to avoid new flare-ups. Consider getting a check-up before you start running.

6. Join the club: Many runners love the camaraderie and extra motivation that comes with
running with others. You can find numerous running teams at the Road Runners Club of 
America and Meetup.com.

7. Make a plan: Choose a personal goal, such as running a mile without stopping or finishing
a local road race. Check out the flexible Couch-to-5K running program.

8. Take notes: Keep track of your progress in a notebook or journal. Write down where you
were, how long you ran, and note how your body felt during and after your run. You’ll be
surprised how often you refer back to it.

9. Celebrate milestones: Mum’s not the word when you meet your running goals. Don’t be
shy about letting friends and family know when you have completed two miles for the first
time or finished a loop in the park.

10. Remember to stretch: Pre- and post-run stretching helps your body prepare and recover
from the day’s run. Make sure to start out with dynamic stretches and finish with static 
stretches.


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