10 Things I Wish I Knew as a New Runner [Infographic]

New to running? Here are some tips!

10 Things I Wish I Knew As A New Runner

1. Start From Where You Are: Start from where you are fitness-wise and build slowly.
2. Don't Comparison Shop: Don't compare yourself to others...everyone starts at the beginning.
3. Make Running Friends: Be open, be vulnerable and surround yourself with other runners and wannabe runners.
4. Lube Up: Avoid running apparel with rough seams, wear technical apparel that wicks moisture, invest in Body Glide.
5. Mix Things Up: It's wise to alternate a running day with a cross-train day — strength train, cycling, yoga...do something difference once in awhile.
6. Breathe: Use your breathing rate to guide you rather than your running pace.
7. Let Your Body Be Your Guide: Listen to your body instead of trying to keep up with your buddy.
8. Keep Track & Rate Yourself: Rate how you feel overall during your workouts and color code them, then you will begin to see trends in how your body responds to the workouts.
9. It's All About the Effort: Your body knows effort, not pace. Learn to run by how your body responds in the moment.
10. Patience Grasshopper:Let the miles come to you in time — you'll enjoy the journey and learn to love running along the way.