Making mistakes is a part of the learning process. As a beginning runner, making mistakes is a fact of the trade. You just can't jump from being a non-runner to being more advanced before first facing some hurdles and setbacks along the way.
Nonetheless, knowing how to deal with such misfortunes and blunders can put you on the fast track to becoming a better runner; while at the same time preventing discomfort, injury and disappointment.
As a result, here are the three most common mistakes beginning runners make and how to avoid them.
Running Mistake #1: Running in the Wrong Shoes
This is the most common mistakes among novice runners. Most beginner exercisers approach their running training program with a sense of enthusiasm and a strong drive, so they think that any shoe can do the job. That's a big mistake. Running shoes are specifically made from the factory to protect and support the feet while running. This prevents discomfort and injury both during and after the running session.
The Solution:
Before you head out of the door, you need to make sure that you're running in the proper shoes. Your running goals and foot type are the main measuring scales for choosing a shoe. Go to your local sport shop, where knowledgeable salespeople can help you pick the right shoe for you. After telling them about your running goals and figuring out your foot type, they'll make the right shoe recommendation for you. Just beware that the expensive shoe is not always the best option.
Running Mistake #2: Too Much, Too Soon
Another common beginner mistake is overdoing the exercise. Many novice runners make the mistake of running too much, too fast, too soon, at too quick pace. Those who make this mistake blindly assume that "more is better" when it comes to running training. Nevertheless, adopting this training approach can only lead to discomfort, and a myriad of common overuse running injuries, such as shin splints, runner's knee, ITB syndrome, or even a burnout.
The Solution:
The only way you can prevent from making this mistake is to start simple and train smartly. If you're new into running or haven't run in a while, you should begin your training gently and increase training intensity and mileage incrementally. In fact, you may need to start off with a walk-run-walk program, and then progress gradually into running.
Running Mistake #3: No Calorie Intake
This is most widespread among runners who face weight problems and want to trim down. Many overweight runners are tempted to halt their calorie intake in order to speed up the weight loss process. However, in order to run effectively, you need to have enough energy in your body to sustain the activity. Otherwise, you'll tire soon and be dissatisfied with your running program and level of enjoyment.
The Solution:
The key to weight loss running is moderation. To lose weight, you need to expend more energy than you're taking in. However, this doesn't mean sacrificing valuable nutrients, especially when your body needs them more than ever. If you follow a healthy diet and kept distance from junk food, you'll definitely get your energy needs met while at the same time, burn off the excess weight; which may be the reason why you started to run in the first place.
The above mistakes are the most common among beginner runners; however - if you apply the proposed strategies - they can be easily avoided. Therefore, make sure to run within your current skill and stir your running program back on the right track whenever you start slipping into these bad running habits.
