Start Running With The Basics

You want to know how to start running? We’re glad you asked.

Running doesn’t take special equipment or an expensive gym membership—a well-fitting pair of shoes and sweat-wicking apparel will do just fine. And, yes, you can start anytime. Plus, running is great way to stay in shape, make new friends and explore new places.

But before you lace up your shoes and sprint down the street, we have some tips on how to start running. This guide will take you through the fundamentals of running, provide tips on staying motivated and setting goals, and teach you one simple trick to sticking with it.

[For an updated list of our favorite beginner running shoes check out the Best Running Shoes for Beginners.]

Once you get fit for running shoes, it's time to decide which pair is right for you. Your shoes should feel comfortable from the moment you put them on your feet. Don't buy a pair thinking that they'll "break in" or "stretch out," instead go with what feels most comfortable inside the store.

Running shoes have varying levels of cushion and support, from minimalist style shoes to maximum-cushioned trainers. No "best" type of running shoe exists, it's all about what feels comfortable on your feet. Your Fleet Feet outfitter will help you determine what type of support you need based on the data from your foot scan.

Pro tips: Once you’re into running, it’s also important to know how to make your running shoes last and when they’re ready to be replaced. Also, rotating through at least two pairs of shoes on a regular basis helps the shoes last longer and helps you to stave off injury.

Weightlifters don’t load a bar with a random assortment of weights and try to do a squat. In the same way, you shouldn’t take off down the road without a plan.

Setting goals is an important part of getting into running. But you need to set the right ones.

Vague or overly broad goals, like “being healthier” or “getting in shape,” won’t help your training because they are difficult to measure and don’t have a defined end. Instead, set specific, time-bound goals: Goals like running a mile without stopping or finishing a 5K by the end of the month will give you something to work toward and tangible ways to measure your success.

Here are some tips to set good running goals:

• Set attainable goals. Setting goals that are too lofty can lead to disappointment and burnout. Never ran a race before? Don’t jump straight into training for a marathon. Start with a 5K and work your way up to longer distances.
• Set measurable goals. Losing motivation is easy without a reason to train. Knowing how far or how fast you want to run will give you defined markers of success and show you how close you are to meeting your goal. Plus, meeting your goals will give you a mental boost to propel you toward bigger challenges, like covering longer distance or learning to trail run.
• Set goals that fit your schedule. You’re busy. Between work, family, travel and all the other things you do, there might not be much time left in your week. So, set goals that will work in your schedule to avoid making excuses when it comes time to run. Only have an hour a day to train? Plan accordingly. And when it comes to running workouts, prioritize quality over quantity.
• Listen to your body. It is normal to feel sore muscles when starting a new exercise routine. However, if you experience pain, it is important to seek professional help to reduce the risk of injury.

Many 5K training programs for beginners last about six to 10 weeks, ending with your goal race. A typical week in the middle of a new-to-running 5K training plan might look like this:

• Monday: Run-walk intervals. Run three minutes, walk two minutes. Repeat five times.
• Tuesday: Cross training. Ride a stationary bike for 30 minutes.
• Wednesday: Run-walk intervals. Run four minutes, walk two minutes. Repeat five times.
• Thursday: Cross training. Bike, swim or lift weights for 30 minutes.
• Friday: Rest
• Saturday: Run 2 to 2.5 miles.
• Sunday: Rest