How to start Running

Love It or Hate It: Running

Let’s be honest, running is one of those things: you either love it or hate it. For many, it’s the second option. People find it hard, discouraging, and sometimes impossible to stick with. But for those who push past the initial struggles and keep going, there’s something magical waiting: the runner’s high.

A runner’s high… Something I never thought I’d experience. But now, I know exactly what it feels like to be over the moon from running. Trust me, it wasn’t always this way.

From Overwhelmed to Empowered

I’ve always enjoyed being active. Fitness has taken many forms for me: gym memberships, HIIT classes, and even the occasional boxing session. On days I didn’t feel like doing a workout, I’d squeeze in a quick 5k run. Or so I thought. Every time I finished, red-faced and grumpy, I’d feel defeated for not being able to “easily” handle what I considered a small workout.

At the time, I was carrying extra weight, loved good food and drinks, and thought I was living a healthy lifestyle. Spoiler alert: I wasn’t.

When I moved to Mexico in early 2024, I knew something had to change. My husband Yass had already given up alcohol for over a year, but I just couldn’t seem to do the same. With all the willpower of a shrimp, I finally managed to quit drinking on February 1st. That decision completely transformed my mental and physical health.

I started losing weight, gained mental clarity, and felt stronger than ever. But the 5k? It stayed the same: still slow, still challenging. I wasn’t improving.

From 5k to Marathon

Fast forward to now: I’ve signed up for a marathon!! Yes, a full 42.2 kilometers! It sounds crazy, even to me. But deep down, I know I can.

How did I go from struggling with a 5k to preparing for a marathon? Here’s what worked for me:

My Tips for Becoming a Runner

1. Get Out of Your Head

Running is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Our minds often make excuses to hold us back. Fight those thoughts, gear up in comfortable or fabulous clothes, and just go. Believe me, no one is judging you for running, they’ll probably admire you for it.

2. Start Slow and Steady

Begin with an easy pace, like running in zone 1 where you can hold a conversation comfortably. This helps build your aerobic base. You can also alternate between walking and running to ease into it. As you improve, progress to zone 2 for a bit more challenge. Still manageable, but a little harder to chat.

3. Avoid Injuries

Take it slow. Don’t increase your weekly kilometer count by more than 10%. Incorporate strength training to support your runs, and always warm up with a mix of stretches and dynamic exercises.

4. Fuel and Hydrate Properly

For runs over 10 kilometers, prep with an electrolyte and a snack like a banana. During the run, test out energy chews or gels to see what works best for your stomach. Consume them slowly over a kilometer to avoid discomfort. You can find all my favourites in my Amazon shop.

5. Music is Key

Good music can transform your runs. I swear by my Shokz (Amazon) headphones: they let me hear both my music and my surroundings, keeping me safe and motivated.

6. Find a Running Buddy or Club

Running with others can be more fun and motivating than going solo. If you can, train with someone faster: it’ll push you to improve. To be honest, my progress really took off when I started running with someone who had already completed several marathons! I gained a better understanding of the run and knew what to focus on. And hey… you’ll keep getting faster!

7. Sign Up for a Race

Whether it’s a 5k, half marathon, or full marathon, having a goal keeps you accountable. Paying for a race and following a training plan (easily found on apps like Strava or Runna) provides structure and motivation.

8. Take Recovery Seriously

Running is tough on your body and mind. Rest days are essential to avoid burnout and injury. Plan relaxing activities or just take it easy. And don’t underestimate the power of good sleep!

My Training Plan

As I train for my 42.2-kilometer marathon, my weekly schedule includes:

1 interval session
1 speed workout
1 short, easy run
1 long run
Strength training twice a week (upper and lower body)

Ready to Run?

I hope this inspires you to start running or sign up for a race. Do you have a race in mind, or are you already training for one? Let me know in the comments!

And who knows, maybe we can run together someday and grab a coffee afterwards. Let’s make it happen!