Prior to embarking on your running journey a crucial element is picking your goal. Choosing a goal and following a training plan will help you to have a purpose and stay accountable, getting you out the door every day and ultimately giving you something you can feel proud of at the end of the journey. Whether you are aiming to run your first 5km or want to enter your first endurance race – we are here to help. Having a tailored running plan, not only provides you with expert advice to help you achieve your goals faster, but also ensures you are doing it safely. To help pick your tailored training plan and solidify your goal have a read of our 'How to Choose a Running Goal' article linked below.

Choosing the perfect running shoe is crucial when beginning your running journey, as it not only affects your level of comfort and prevents injuries, but it also has a huge impact on how enjoyable your runs are too. Correctly fitted shoes provide adequate support, protection and stability - all of which are essential when clocking up the miles. We recently sat down with running physio Aidan O'Flaherty and shoe reviewer Jamie's Running to find out their top-tips for choosing the right running shoes so be sure to check out what they had to say.

Tracking your runs on your phone via the Runna app is a perfect first step for beginners who are just starting out on their running journey as you are able to track basic data points such as distance, pace and time. For those looking to take their running tracking to the next level will be faced with the world of smart running watches. These include watches such as Garmin, Apple Watch, and Coros, all of which can be connected with Runna to deliver real-time data on your performance straight from your wrist, allowing you to track progress, establish targets, and optimise your training beyond what is possible on a phone.

Nutrition, as a runner, is key to your success. Making the right decisions will enhance your performance, aid recovery, and make your running experience more enjoyable. We've teamed up with Science in Sport to create a nutrition guide specifically targeted towards runners. This guide will provide you with all of the information you need to maximise your running experience - whether you're training or competing, the guide covers how to fuel yourself before, during and after your runs.

Hydration

When running in warm weather or anything over half an hour, we recommend using a running hydration vest. This enables you to stay hydrated whilst on the go so you can get the most from your training. When looking for a hydration vest we recommend considering the fit, capacity of water, breathability, storage and ensuring it is lightweight. Have look at our more in depth guide for recommendations and further advice on hydration vests:

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to apparel but it's best to pick comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the climate you will be running in. To stay cool and dry in hot weather, consider lightweight, moisture-wicking textiles. In cooler weather, layering moisture-wicking base layers and insulating outerwear will help keep you warm without overheating. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable run, be sure to check the weather forecast and pick your kit accordingly.

Recovery is an essential part of every runners training plan. Without adequate recovery time, allowing your body to physically and mentally restore itself, you put yourself at risk of injury and burnout. It is important to listen to your training plan and your body, taking rest days when needed to properly recover. Alongside this, it is important to help your muscles recover by the taking necessary steps such as doing mobility classes, taking Epsom Salt baths (designed to relax muscles) and using a foam roller. You can follow our mobility routine classes HERE, or join our free weekly live mobility classes.

When looking for a foam roller, runners often benefit from a denser, more textured roller to provide targeted relief of deeper tissue and break up any knots and tight spots. Have a look at our recommendation HERE.

Good luck and be sure to message our team if you have any other questions!