You Can Do This! - A Beginner's Guide to Training For a 5K

Training for a 5K race is a good way to test yourrace, make sure you find one that is far enough
personal fitness limits, add variety to your currentin advance to give you time to get into shape and
exercise program and to have fun! Here areadjust for any inconsistencies in your routine. 8-10
some suggestions for those aspiring to run a 5K.weeks is a good amount of time to train for a
Of course, it goes without saying that before you5K, and 12-14 weeks isn't a bad idea, especially if
start any type of exercise program it is beneficialyou need to begin with a walking program.
to get a medical exam to rule out any underlyingListen to your body. Pay attention to your aches
health issues. Okay? Let's begin!and pains. Do not be in a hurry to take medicine
When you start to train for a 5K run, you areuntil you understand why you have a particular
going to want to take it slow. Especially if youpain. Ignoring it will only make it worse. Once you
haven't exercised in a while, you don't want toknow what is causing your discomfort, then treat
overdo it. Do not get in a hurry to get fit. You willit.
get there, but you have to take a measured,Speaking of which, make sure your training
gradual effort. The key to succeeding in this is toprogram allows plenty of rest. You really don't
stay consistent. And you cannot remain consistentwant to run everyday as a beginner. You should
if you are in so much pain that you cannot runschedule no more than 4 running exercise
properly.sessions a week. Many seasoned runners run
A good rule of thumb for beginners training for aevery day, but they have become used to that
5K run or any running program is to alternateamount of exercise. Plus, their fitness goals may
running with walking. Try alternating one minute ofdemand that type of schedule. Plan your exercise
running, followed by a minute of walking. Whenroutine based on what you can do only.
you feel comfortable with that, increase theLast but definitely not least, invest in a good pair
running by 15-30 seconds. The idea is to graduallyof running shoes. If at all possible, try to find a
increase your endurance. When increasing yourspecialty running store in your local area. Once
endurance, try not to do too much too soon.again, take your time when trying on the shoes
Staying with your routine for a week beforeand prepare to spend about 75-100 dollars on a
increasing your intensity is a good idea.quality pair of running shoes.
Take your time! If your goal is to run in a 5K