Getting Started:
It really is as simple as getting out of the door and giving it a go, however we are now lucky enough to have access to programmes for beginners that can be run via an app. The Couch to 5k app is a great starting point for most and will guide you through building up your running gradually over 9 weeks.
Using an App, or joining a group ( Mile Shy Club is a great example in the Greater Manchester area and growing) can help give you instant feedback which is great for the dopamine levels, plus brings in accountability as well as being an appropriately sized commitment to make success more likely.
On success there is no failure in running. On a rough day running slower or walking will still give fitness and wellbeing benefits.
Kit:
There's 3 main things needed, 1) Trainers, 2) Shorts/Leggings and 3) Vest or T-Shirt or Long Sleeved Top
Dress for the weather and on hot days considering taking a drink. When it is wet running can still be fun, take care to ensure you stay warm enough and are close to warm shelter you can reach easily if for any reason you need to cut the run short.
Playing to your strengths:
Running gives you the ideal opportunity to play to your strengths. Enjoy exploring and finding new places? Go for a run! Comfortable running the same local loop for consistency and familiarity? Go for a run! Fan of Stats? Go for a run and record it - you can use Strava on your phone, or look into fitness watches - but beware the impulse buy tendency - then track your progress in Strava, Garmin Connect, or through other community sites like Fetch Everyone
But I want to go racing already:
There's plenty of time to gain your confidence before racing. When you feel you are ready (and that might be right now) there's loads of opportunities at weekly informal timed events over 5km via Park Run Once you are looking for more races there's a great searchable directory over at Fetch Everyone then for the really keen, a club finder at England Athletics, the sports governing body here. For those in other areas a quick google (or similar) should help you find the equivalent.
What about running with other runners?
Running can be a great solo post-time, but can be made easier running with others for social chat which helps the time pass quicker and the effort feel less. There's likely to be beginner groups near you, or why not post up in our Strava Club to see who is nearby and what club they run with and what the sessions are like. We encourage meeting via established running social groups and running clubs for the safest experience.