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How To Start Running: Six Week Training Program

We all know that cardio activities, like running, are great for your health. Stepping into a running routine will improve your well-being on numerous levels, both physically and mentally. If you’re new to running or brooding about starting, knowing where and how to start are often the foremost challenging aspects of getting up and going. The simplest thing to do is to set a goal then put together a running plan.
A great starting goal for beginning runners is a 5K race, which equals 3.1 miles. Albeit you do not currently run in the least, it can take as little as 6 weeks to train for one of these races. Most cities have 5K races daily, and they typically support good causes. So, set your sights on a goal, then follow this easy, 6-week training plan.

Week 1

Workout

This first week you just want to set your sites on getting off the couch and getting moving. Start just by selecting four days to jog, or walk, 0.5 miles. If you select to walk, do so at as fast a pace as you’re comfortable with.

Strength-Building

You should also decide to do two days of light strength-building. Strength-building is extremely important when training for a race because it builds the muscles needed for continual running. you don’t need to lift heavy weights and bulk up. the weight of your own body or, light, free weights, are going to be quite enough. you’ll do that within the comfort of your house with free weights or a yoga mat, or, if you’ve got access to a gym, use their machinery.

Diet

During this first week it is a good idea to also start adding healthy foods to your diet and this will provide you with energy as you run. Avoid greasy and heavy foods which will cause you to feel tired and drain your energy. Foods, like nuts, fruits, and vegetables are great for top nutrition energy.

Week 2

Workout

Now that you have made it through your first week, up your mileage to 1 mile, three or four times in the week. attempt to run the entire way if you can, albeit it’s at a really slow pace. make sure to stretch before, and after, so that you do not pull any muscles.

Strength-Building

Continue to strength-build twice in the week. Yoga could be a great strength-building activity because it is a total body workout that a lot of people overlook. it is also an excellent workout for runners because it stretches out the muscles that tend to get tight, as you build your running distance.

Diet

Continue to add healthy foods to your diet. you’ll also notice a rise in hunger as you work out more. Eat once you are hungry, but keep in mind that running one mile only burns 100 calories, so snack wisely

Week 3

Workout

Add another 880 yards to your run. You’re up to 1.5 miles now!

Strength-Building

Continue to strength-build twice every week. You’ll want to add core exercises, like planking, or sit-ups. Make it a goal to plank for 30 seconds.

Diet

Continue to add healthy foods to your diet. Make sure to drink lots of water before and after your workout.

Week 4

Workout

You’ve made it halfway through the six weeks! Just three short weeks ago you could not run the least bit. Now you’ll boost your mileage to 2 miles, 3 times per week.

Strength-Building

Continue to strength-build twice every week. Attempt to plank for 45 seconds.

Diet

Consider making great tasting post-workout smoothies. All you need is frozen fruit, a liquid, like fruit juice, or milk, and your good to go. Also consider adding greens to your smoothie, like spinach, or kale – they’re full of anti-oxidants.

Week 5

Workout

Almost there! Boost your mileage up to 2.5 miles in this week. Now that you are going longer distances make certain to stretch very well before, and after, each workout.

Strength-Building

Continue to strength-build twice per week. attempt to plank for 60 seconds. Squats are great for strengthening the running muscles in your legs.

Diet

As you run more, you’ll start becoming depleted of electrolytes. attempt to replace them by drinking all-natural coconut milk, which is high in potassium. Potassium is an important electrolyte for runners.

Week 6

Workout

Now you’re ready for the ultimate leg of your training. You’re up to three miles this week! attempt to run 3 times this week, giving yourself a day of rest and two strength-building days. The day before you run the 5K, it is a good idea to take a short run, say 1 mile, just to keep your muscles warmed up.

Strength-Building

You can still strength-build this week. Just make certain you do not over-do it. you do not want to be sore on the day of the race.

Diet

Continue to eat healthy foods. A day, or two, before the race, make certain that you just don’t eat anything too heavy, or out-of-the-ordinary. you do not want to have to deal with a stomach upset on race day.

Week 6+

Hopefully, after completing your 6 weeks of coaching, you are feeling great, both inside and out. Running can truly be transformative. Don’t stop at 5K. From here you’ll continue your running routine by maintaining a 3-mile distance. Or, if you’re feeling more ambitious, you’ll set your goals higher and start to train for a 10K (6.2 miles) and, maybe even a Half Marathon (13.1 miles). Just continue to increase your mileage and pay attention to your runner’s diet and you’ll reach your next goal in no time!

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