Charleston is a great place to for a run. No matter where you go you’re sure to have a great view. With the Cooper River Bridge Run a little over a month away its time to get in shape if you haven’t started training already. I ran cross country all of high school and my first year of college. I completely understand how hard it is to be motivated to work out sometimes so here are my tips to be able to attempt your next 5k or the Bridge Run this spring.
1. Know your limit.
Image from Vomzi.
Before I started running cross country I had never ran more then a mile. I went into practice starting at 3 miles. This huge change in mileage gave me shin splints and super sore calves. Its better to pace yourself and slowly increase the distances you run.
2. Always bring your phone.
I personally don’t like to run with music but I always bring my phone with me. Sometimes its annoying to carry but it’s a safety issue. It’s scary to be 3 miles away from home with a hurt leg and having no one to call.
3. Invest in some decent shoes.
Image from Giphy.
The shoes you wear make all the difference. If you have an old pair of worn out running shoes you plan on working out in, throw them away. Worn out shoes can only cause injury. During my time running cross country I would get an injury and my athletic trainer would look at me and say, “Get new shoes.” They may be expensive but its worth not being in pain.
4. Hydrate and eat properly.
If you don’t put goof stuff in you won’t get good results. The food you eat a few hours before you run makes all the difference. One time I ate chicken and dumplings and then ran for two hours. I was so full. It was probably the most painful and sluggish run ever for me.
5. Have fun!
Image from Giphy.
If you’re running because you feel like you have to then go find another activity. Running isn’t meant to be miserable. Yes, there are times it sucks and you hate yourself but it shouldn’t be like that all the time. There are times you really regret going for a run but most of the time you feel great after you’re done. If you still hate running after going for a run in beautiful Charleston, maybe stick to the gym.
Working out can be hard, especially if you’re new to anything like running, but running in Charleston is something we should all try at least once. With these tips in hand, now you can try your best at any course whether it’s a simple 5k or the Bridge Run in April.