5 Tips for Beginner Runners
With any hobby, the first few months are paramount for it to stick and that is no different to running, I have been running for 3 years and plan to continue for as long as I can, whilst on this journey I’ve picked up some useful tips which may help you and overs below.
The Couch to 5k App
If you have not yet completed the 5k distance this app can be a great tool to get there, this will set out specific workouts weekly to get you to that 5k distance. The thing that stops many beginner runners is going out hard and gassing out when you haven’t spent the time building the core blocks of their fitness. This is app helps to introduce training methodologies to beginners and will help prepare for longer distances and the years ahead. With any sport or hobby, consistency is one of the main factors of progression and this app will get you consistently training and get you over the initial toughness of running.
Couch to 5k App
https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/one-you-couch-to-5k/id1082307672
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.phe.couchto5K&hl=en_GB
Run with a friend
Running alone can be tough sometimes especially when you are starting out. Running with a friend gives you that extra motivation to get out there and keep your running consistent, when one person doesn’t feel up for it the other will usually motivate them through the run. This is also a great healthy way to catch up with friends over a little chit chat whilst getting your miles in and believe me the miles will go by much quicker when you have someone to talk to.
If none of your friends are interested in running, join a club!
https://www.timeoutdoors.com/clubs
Run easy
Running hard and gassing out is no way to stay consistent you need plenty of easy miles throughout the week to build the fitness to take you further!
Pushing yourself too hard early on can lead to burning out which may turn you away from running altogether. Depending on your fitness level I would recommend 2 easy runs each week and maybe 1 or 2 workouts which could include rep work (100m,200m,400m) or hill-sprints.
Why Running slow can make you run faster!
Get the right shoes
Before starting any training plan, I would recommend making sure you get the right running shoes for your running style. You need to find out what type of shoe you need whether that’s a low drop or a shoe with plenty of support. A specialist running store such as runners needs will be able to perform a gait analysis and running form test which will determine the correct shoe for you. Having the correct shoes will help to prevent injuries, improve form and maybe even make you a tad faster 
Having specific shoes for different terrain is also a necessity, one for road, one for the trail, and maybe a hybrid.
https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a22115120/best-trail-running-shoes/
Pick a race and train for it
Once you have built up your initial fitness and completed a 5k you need something to shoot for next. Picking an event and setting a date in the calendar can give many the motivation to keep going. The atmosphere at events is electric and seeing everyone running alongside you can spur you to carry on, also for the competitive ones there is no better place for getting a PB!
So there you have it 5 tips to help you on your running journey, I hope you can take some of this on-board and see improvements.
Good Luck!