TIP 1: Remember that we all have to start somewhere.

If you just start, you will feel so much better for it than if you keep putting it off! It is ok if you have never run before or if you can’t run very far without stopping. This is what the KICRUN Club is here to help with! All you need to do is pop in your headphones, be kind to yourself and try your best. If you never lace up those runners and make a start you’ll never have the opportunity to surprise yourself at just how capable you are.

TIP 2: Warm up and cool down.

The key to being able to increase your distance and prevent injury is making sure you warm up properly and stretch once you finish. A warm up might simply be a few star jumps and leg swings but whatever you choose, it’s important to get the blood flowing and our muscles warm. For me personally, my hip flexors and glutes get really tight so I have to make sure I always stretch in both my warm up and cool down so I can run injury free. If you’re looking for guidance, in the Kic app you’ll find 5 minute warm ups & cool downs with your favourite Kic trainers. If you’ve got a foam roller at your disposal this is also another great tool to use to help with recovery – it’ll act like your physio and massage therapist all in one!

TIP 3: Get yourself a good pair of runners. STAT!

I can’t stress this enough! Having proper shoes to support your running is so important. If you’re on the hunt for a new pair, I highly recommend the New Balance 1080v13s.  The Fresh Foam midsole is incredibly comfortable to run on. New Balance has fine-tuned their best performing running shoe and trust me, these shoes will help you run with confidence! 

Check out the New Balance 1080v13s and the entire KICRUN Club edit. 

TIP 4: Keep up your Strength, Pilates & Yoga.

Glute strength is so important to help with your running, so make sure you include strength sessions to complement your training. I also ensure that I give my body adequate recovery and rest time so I’ll also include a Kic yoga or Pilates flow during the week to really stretch out my muscles. 

TIP 5: Follow a run program

If you’re looking for motivation, guidance and support along the way, the KICRUN Club is made for you. Choose the goal of 0-5km, and together we’ll start slow with short running bursts and long walking breaks to help you gradually build up your running stamina.

I’m confident that when you join the KICRUN Club and complete the three weekly runs, you’ll be running 5km straight in just 8 weeks, trust me!

TIP 6: Your mindset matters.

If you start running but still believe deep down that you aren’t really a runner or aren’t good enough to run, it’s going to be really hard to stick to your training and find your full potential. Repeat after me; I AM A RUNNER, I CAN DO THIS AND I AM STRONG. Try writing down some reasons WHY you want to run, that are important to you and repeat these in your head along with your positive self talk when it gets hard and you want to give up. The more you tell yourself you can, the sooner you will truly believe it.

TIP 7: Get some tunes on!

Other than a running buddy, music is one of the most powerful motivators going around. Find a killer running playlist to join you on your run! There are so many times I have almost given up on my runs but a good song has helped me through. Just be sure to keep the volume to a level that means you’re able to hear what’s going on around you…  Safety first!

TIP 8: Make it fun!

Yes, running can be fun!! Finding ways to make you look forward to your run are going to help circumvent any excuse not to start. On those warmer days I love ending my run at the beach so that I can take a cool down swim. Finding a running buddy might also be a great motivator and together you can complete a KICRUN session and then grab a coffee from your favourite local cafe afterwards! Everyone’s approach to this will be different so find what works for you so that you’re waking up looking forward to your run.