The sign up for the Chicago Marathon was this past week. Yes, it seems that despite the cold winter and the endless snow, there will be a new running season!
Maybe you have decided to start running this year. Do you know that there are several programs out there to help you be successful and enjoy running? One of the programs that I have heard about over the years is the “couch to 5K” or C25K approach. Yes, there is an app for that. http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
There is also advice from Runner’s World Magazine ( http://www.runnersworld.com/beginners/runners-world-start-running-plan-7-weeks) and Fitness Magazine (http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/running/training-schedules/running-101-a-beginners-guide/) Following a program that tells you how to ramp up your running is a good idea. After all, you don’t want to hurt yourself or get discouraged because you have unrealistic running goals.
Another good idea is to look for a running group in your area. The group members not only are valuable sources of information but they also give you incentive to get out and join them for a run. About this time of year, groups start forming to work together on marathon training. You can usually join whether or not you are planning to run the marathon. The beginning training will help you start out safely and you can enjoy the company of other people.
Of course, your running shoes are a very important part of your success. I have talked about running shoes before http://www.epsfootdocs.com/2013/03/10-rules-to-follow-when-purchasing.htmlin my post 10 Rules to Follow When Purchasing Athletic Shoes. It is important that you have the correct support when you are running. You also want to make sure that you wear socks that will wick the moisture away from your feet.
Blisters are a problem for runners. There are some things you can do to prevent blisters. First of all, have your shoes fitted by someone who really knows how to fit athletic shoes. When you are buying shoes, wear the socks that you plan to wear when you are running. Then when you have your new shoes, don’t try and go for a long run the first time. Break your shoes in slowly to try and avoid problems. If you do find areas where the shoes rub your feet at first, you might want to try a product like Dr. Scholl’s Miracle Shield to moisturize the area to keep it for injury. If you do get blisters, make sure you take care of the so that they do not get infected. If the area around the blister gets warm or you see red streaks on the skin around the blister or you start to run a fever, get the doctor right away.
If your feet hurt while you are running, it may be that a trip to your friendly local podiatrist will help. The doctor can look at your feet and shoes and watch you run to see if there is an orthotic or an insert that can help you.
I hope you enjoy running. The spring is the perfect time to start! There is so much to see and enjoy on your runs. Just make sure you start slowly and build.
Your Pal,
The Foot Blogger Chick
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