Running Out-front: How to Come Out Running
by Dave Richards // @daverich_runner
(Editor's note: “Trainers” = running shoes. )
One gorgeous summer’s day about 15 years ago, I was desperate to get out of my flat and so I picked up some trainers and went for a run. I told myself ‘just see how you get on’ and got out the door. After a fairly inactive lifestyle until then, it was a turning point for the relationship I had with my health, fitness and the great outdoors. I really enjoyed the feeling of freedom, of being in the fresh air, and surprised myself that I didn’t need to stop after 10 minutes. In fact, I ran for about 45 minutes, which for a novice felt like a really long time.
I soon started to run regularly, and enjoyed the buzz of going further, feeling fitter and getting stronger. As the years went by, I tried to join running clubs, but as a gay guy living in a small-ish town, didn’t feel like a quite fit in. This was probably more my problem than anyone else’s, but it meant that running alone became the norm, and I was ok about that. 15 years on, I still mainly run alone, or sometimes with my wonderful boyfriend - who has just started getting into it too.
Running was the start of the active lifestyle I now lead. It continues to be my go-to sport. Though now, I’ve also fallen in love with cycling, skiing and HIIT. If, like me 15 years ago, you’re considering getting into running, here are my top tips....
Invest in good trainers! You don’t need to spend a total fortune on a decent pair of running shoes, but finding the right brand and type for your running style is important. Go to a running specialist shop and get a ‘gait test’ done to help you know whether pronate, heel strike, etc.
Start gently and build up! It’s not all about speed and distance when you start. Listen to your body and respect what it’s telling you. Take time to recover between runs and you’ll avoid injury and fatigue.
Run in places that inspire you! City running is sometimes a necessary evil, but if you can get to parks and open green spaces, go running in them. Your knees will also thank you for running on trials and tracks too, as it’s less impact than tarmac/concrete!
Have a goal! It doesn’t need to be a race (though I’d encourage you to do one from time to time), but figure out what you want to achieve from your running and work towards it. The sense of achievement when you make it is awesome!
Make it social! That doesn’t mean joining a club, as if you’re like me, it’s not for everyone. But using social media and gps tracking apps/devices gives you a load of data to share, and you can connect with other runners.
Make it fun! Sounds cliche, but whether it’s listening to upbeat music, a podcast, audio book, or just your own thoughts - you’ll love your run so much more if you add other stimulus to it!
To coin a very apt phrase - distance running is a marathon, not a sprint, and ultimately patience is your biggest friend. No matter your budget or goals, your physical and mental health will both benefit from getting out there into the great outdoors for a run! Good luck!
