Icons caret-sm-white star-half circle-drag icon-checkmark-nocircle icon-envelope Left Arrow Scroll down Scroll down close close Expand Scroll down quote-marks squiggle Play Play Pause Pause long squiggle squiggle 1 close filter-icon Info Information Plus Icon Minus Icon Check Icon Check Icon
Country selector
United States Flag United States English Change
Minicart
United States Flag United States English Change
Running Tips

Left foot, right foot: how to start running

September 15, 2020 | By Brooks Staff
A runner stretches and laughs with two fellow runners
Down Arrow
Down Arrow

Do you want to know how to start running? Just go. That’s it. End of article.

Just kidding (sort of). Putting foot to pavement, track, trail, or treadmill is certainly the biggest step to getting started, but if you want to keep running, it’s important to set goals, create routines, make smart choices, and choose the right gear.

Let’s be honest: running can be hard. If you’re just getting started, you’ll probably ache, and your body might cramp in places you didn’t know could cramp.

The good news? Running is one of the most inclusive and easy-to-access sports out there — people with a range of abilities can participate, you can go alone or run in groups, set out at any hour, and cover just about any terrain.

What do you want from the run?

Challenges like cramps and aches diminish as you run more regularly and develop good habits like stretching, keeping hydrated, and eating a balanced diet. To make it even easier to become a consistent runner, identify your run motivation and create goals to match.

Two runners, one with hands on his hips and the other with hands raised high in celebration, look out at a picturesque mountain landscape.

Are you running to get fit? Set goal numbers for things like calories burned, pounds lost, and body-mass index.

Maybe you’re searching for an active way to get some quality time with yourself. If so, schedule out your runs a month in advance so you can take ownership of that time.

Preparing for a race? Our beginner 5K and 10K training guides can help you get set for the starting line, ready to break PRs, and shoot your first snot rockets.

Tip: Learn about PRs, snot rockets, and more in our handy glossary of weird running words.

Adopting a plan and being consistent (and persistent) with it can keep you moving forward on your runner’s journey.

Closeup shot of a runner’s leg in a seated calf stretch position.

Gear check

If you’re ready to run on the regular, you should start with choosing the right shoe. No two runners are alike, and Brooks provides lots of options to make sure what you put on your feet will help you love the run.

As you’re making decisions about shoes, it’s a good idea to think about where you’re going to be running. Whether you’re pounding the pavement in your neighborhood streets, sweating on your in-home treadmill, or striding through trails in the wilderness, there’s a shoe out there for you.

You should also consider when you want to run. Many new runners will start out in the daytime, but some prefer to avoid the heat of day or simply can’t find the time after the sun goes up or before the sun goes down. The Brooks Nightlife Collection is stylish and includes high-visibility material that reflects light from a car’s headlights directly back toward the driver, providing extra safety for night running.

A closeup shot of a runner wearing Brooks Nightlife Collection gear and stooping over to tie his shoes.

Making the right gear choices can be daunting. Don’t worry, we can help! Our Shoe Finder and Bra Finder are like choose-your-own-adventures for your body. Answer a few questions about your run goals and body, and we’ll suggest a perfect shoe or run bra for you.

As you continue your runner’s journey, you’ll likely have more questions about gear. If you do, be sure to ask a Guru! Our Gurus are running experts located in various cities around the country who can provide gear advice and running tips for beginners.

Do you have your running goals lined up? How about the right gear to fit your ideal experience? With those checked off your list, you’re ready to make running a part of your life for years to come.

Tags