How To Get Your Training Started In 3 Easy Steps

Jun 21, 2016

My name is Robin Simpson and I am a marathoner. I began as a couch potato and, over the course of about 9 months, I became a marathoner. That was 12 years ago. Now, I help others do the same.

Becoming a marathoner is one of the best things I've ever done for myself, my family and my life. It has brought me better coping skills, more energy and improved overall health.

Training for a marathon can be an overwhelming prospect. Like anything else in in life that is a challenge, there is only one way to do it - one step at a time.

Whether you want to train for a marathon, a 5k or just get started with walking or running on a regular basis, how to get started is the same. Here are 3 easy steps to get your training started:

1. Make a decision. Decide to start, based on why you want to do it. Is it to improve your health, lose weight, increase your energy, lower your numbers before your next doctor's visit, prepare for a trip, etc? Name your why and decide to do it - no matter what.

2. Get fitted for the right shoes. I cannot stress the importance of taking care of your feet. Before you start, go to your local specialty running store and let them fit you for new shoes. They will look at your feet, the way you walk without shoes, size you, help you try on several pairs, and watch you walk in them. If you go to a store that does not use these steps in their fitting process, go somewhere else. Get the right shoes for you! This one step could save you much frustration and possible recovery time resulting from discomfort or injury.

3. Start where you are. Once you have your new shoes (and socks), start. It doesn't matter if you have trouble walking to your mailbox and back, just start. If the distance of your first outing is up your street and back, that's ok. Just start somewhere. If you need a schedule for a couch potato, from straight off of the couch, here you go!

Click HERE to view our couch potato schedule for getting started.

It's time to stop with the excuses and get started TODAY. Get up and move. Do what you can, just do something! You can do it!

Be your best,

Co-Director of Marathon Makeover and Stop, Drop and Move

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