by Jessie Bahrey

Created on: April 19, 2009

Running can provide a lifetime of health, wellness, joy, friendship and many other benefits to many enthusiasts, and it has remained one of the most popular activities for decades around the world. But like most other things in life, there can also be some negative aspects to the sport which can have some less than beneficial results. Most experienced runners have learned how to avoid common running mistakes through years of trial and error, and have found ways to make running a part of their lives. Beginning runners, however, often make mistakes that can sometimes lead to less enjoyment, injury, and even giving up on running all together.

One of the most common mistakes beginning runners make is doing too much, too fast. Running can be addictive, both mentally and physically, especially because the results are easy to see as your body shape changes. Running with a group can also mean new friendships and greater motivation, and getting caught up in the world of running can be quite a whirlwind. Unfortunately, doing too many miles and too many events can cause stress injuries and other over-use injuries, and an injury early in one's running career can be difficult to recover from, especially in the first year. After suffering a severe enough injury early on, the likelihood of getting the motivation and inspiration back to the level one had at the start is very difficult. Running simply does not become a part of one's life in the first few months, so being side-lined by an injury and then having to begin the process of training all over again can be a daunting task. To avoid injuries, the beginning runner should start out slowly, and work up as the weeks progress. Listen to advise from other runners, build up distance gradually, and go in events at a slow pace. Running can be a life-long activity, so there is no need to be in a rush.

As well, delving into any activity full tilt can lead to boredom and burnout, particularly if the beginning runner has stopped all other activities to concentrate on just running. What seems exciting and new at the start can become a chore later on. Once the runner's new fitness level and body shape have become a reality, those early morning 10k runs can lose their luster, especially in poor weather, when aches and pains seem bad, or when carving time out for running causes a stress in itself. Many beginning runners become slightly obsessive, and tend to halt other activities, especially if they have a family and work to juggle as well. While those other activities might not provide the same benefits as running, it is extremely important to remain active in a number of activities so that one does not become bored with doing only one thing; as well, performing other exercises will allow the runner to cross-train, and use other muscles groups so that the running muscles are not over-used and other muscle groups get a chance to develop.

Beginning runners need to adhere to the advise of experienced runners when it comes to avoiding common mistakes. Stretching, proper nutrition and hydration, buying proper shoes and other clothing, and resting when needed, are all things that any runner must do, whether they are experienced or just starting out. By beginning slowly and building up, runners can begin a very long and beneficial love affair with their sport, one that will last many years.

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