New to Running?

Is this your first 5k? Are you brand new to running? Runners in our region agree that the Y Turkey Trot Charity 5k is a great event for new runners (and seasoned runners). What makes it so great for new runners - the family atmosphere, the joy, the energy, the varied courses, the costumes and the smiles. To prepare for your first 5k we suggest you consider the following:

1. A positive attitude - you have to believe in yourself and want to do this before you challenge yourself. Write your goal down, announce it to family and friends, post it on Facebook and above all, make the promise to yourself.
2. Support system - there may be days that you just. don't. want. to go for a walk/run, you need your friends and family to push you out the door, to do the dishes so you do not make excuses, to say "good job"! Join a 5k training group (we have them at the Y), find a group for beginners on Facebook or MyFitnessPal for motivation and inspiration.
3. Well-fitting running shoes - you do not have to spend a lot of money, but get fit for a new pair of running shoes. Your local running shops will fit you for free and you do not have to buy a pair of shoes right then and there, but pay attention to why the shoes they choose fits the best. A good pair of running shoes will prevent injury. (We will review this topic in greater depth in a couple weeks on this blog.)
4. Music - create a playlist of songs you only listen to you when you run, so it is a great treat for your ears! Not into music? What about a podcast? It can be health focused, faith focused, the most recent celebrity gossip or even a way to study as you run.
5. A plan - If you join a 5k training group at the Y you will be provided with a training plan, but if you decide to go it alone, there are many plans available online. Here is an example.

Keep coming back here to ymdturkeytrot.org for more running tips - we will post often!