Woodthorpe Huffers and Puffers – Top Tips!

· Check that you’re fit to run – it’s best to go to your practice nurse or GP to be sure

· Once you’re sure you’re going to stick at it get some trainers properly fitted – Sweatshop in the Virgin Active on London Road or Up and Running on Huntingdon Street are your best bet. Expect to pay £60ish – sounds a bit expensive but they’ll last you at least 6 months. Don’t buy trainers without getting them fitted because you might get the wrong ones for your running style and this could cause injuries

· The only other kit you need is a good sports bra (!), pair of tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt, preferably a long sleeve if it’s cold. A reflective jacket is also handy if you have to run alone in the dark. Apart from your trainers you don’t need any fancy, expensive kit…. Asda or Primark will have everything you need!

· Set yourself a goal. We enter 5km races as a club and some also enter 10kms or half marathons!

· REMEMBER – it doesn’t matter how fast you’re running. Go at your own pace and don’t judge yourself against others. Running is not easy, sometimes it hurts a lot and none of us know of anyone who actually likes running – it’s the sense of achievement and well being you get once you’ve done it that feels good!

· Let someone know if you’re struggling – DON’T JUST GIVE UP. We know that running isn’t for everyone and we’ve all felt like jacking it in - it might help to chat to someone. You won’t be able to big improvements for a while so please give it  at least 6 weeks!!

· Don’t run if you’re ill or injured. Feeling sore and stiff is normal but doesn’t mean you’re injured – listen to your body

· Results come in fits and starts so you’ll have a great run one day and feel like you’ve cracked it, only to have a shocker a few days later and think that you’re going backwards. That’s normal, don’t worry

· Keep a running diary to record what you’re doing – you’ll be able to look over it and realise how far you’ve come!

· Stretching is important as it helps prevent injuries – we’ll show you some stretches and it’s best to do some every day