Its the realisation that the physical and mental are inextricably linked which made me more open to change. If I was to recover and get better mentally, I was really going to have to force myself into a healthier lifestyle which included regular exercise.
So as a amateur runner, I bring you some of my tips for an easy transition into this new lifestyle:
1.) Decide on a time
Morning runs are usually the preference of many- you start your day by priming your body for a day of productivity. It also has other perks: catching the sunrise, and seeing your region at rest.
2.) Prepare an appropriate kit
I would recommend investing in good sportswear. Check out local charity shops at your high street - these places are often abundant with lucky finds including sportswear at discounted prices.
Trainers:
Its important to chose comfortable footwear which would allow you to sustain your running activities without damaging your feet. Certain trainers help avoid calluses, sweating and unnecessary strain.
Other:
Dress for the weather. If you live in the UK, a rain coat is almost always an unquestionable must. Also don't forget hats, to keep you hair out of the way and colds at bay. Certain sports clothing suits are designed to prevent chaffing but usually cotton shirt and sports trousers would work perfectly fine. Certain runners recommend woollen socks due to ease of washing and apparent reduction in blisters.
3.) Music Player case ( i.e i-phone case)
Definitely something to consider to avoid being in the awkward position of having to run with a phone in you're sweaty hand. You could invest in one or just as easily make one. DIY life hacks show you how you could make one simply from a single sock.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-hT2Obsy_4&t=147s
4.) Apps : Health or Zombies, Run
Use technology to keep a record of your progress and to motivate yourself during your run. The 'Zombies, Run' app makes running into a game where you run as part of a story line, progressing each time to different levels. This could be what you need to liven up those runs.
This deserves an article on its own.All sorts of complications could arise from lack of water intake so a bottle at hand. Its recommended that you drink 2 Litres a day to support your bodily functions: digestion, body temperature regulation, nutrient transportation and so on.
6.) Make Healthy Snacks
Try cutting up fruit and vegetables and storing them in Tupperware for after your run. Also, making smoothies would not only give you a dash of vitamins but also could potentially motivate you to carry on with your running commitments.
7.)Sunscreen/ Vitamin D
Living in the UK it has vitamin D has become a ubiquitous problem. This once again highlights the great benefits of running. Not only do you complete you recommended weekly exercise but you also replenish your vitamin D stores which is manufactured after exposure to sunlight. However, when summer time comes round it is just as essential to use sunscreen to avoid absorption of harmful UVB and risk of skin cancer.
8.) Therapy
Running is a kind of therapy. Many mental health charities have recognised the beneficial effects of running on the mind(2). It's an activity which requires no thought and gives you time to just be present with yourself. Speaking from experience, it is in times of greatest struggle and challenge when its most important to persevere. As difficult as things get in life, I chose to keep on running.
What do you say?
1.)https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ph44/chapter/1-recommendations
2.)https://mind.org.uk/get-involved/donate-or-fundraise/take-on-an-active-challenge/run-for-mind/
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