Inside: A guide to start a running routine for mamas! Want to start running, but not sure where to begin or how to get motivated? This is for you.

I was miserable. 

The pounding of my feet on the hot pavement wasn't loud enough to muffle the sound of my breathing - breathing that sounded more like it was coming from a dying horse then a human being. Why on earth was I doing this? I'd convinced myself that starting a running routine was needed, and so run I would. 

In high school I was an athlete and ran track; in high school I hated running. But I got to college, the weight started to pile on and I knew I needed to do something. So I started running. And despised every minute of it.

Fast forward 10 years...

Now, however, 10 years later, I look forward to getting out there and pounding the pavement. I love the wind against my skin and breathing in the fresh air.

I once dreaded hearing the word "run". Now it fills me with possibilities. How did I get here? More importantly:

Do you want to be there, too? 

You can be. With a little help and some good tips, you can begin your own love affair with running. I'm here to help you get started 🙂

Why Start A Running Routine?

Many would say they want to start a running routine, but very few actually sustain a lifelong habit of running. Why? Because it can be HARD. In order to start and - more importantly - keep it going, you HAVE to begin with your "big why" for running. 

Listen mama: your new running routine just won't stick unless you have a strong motivation for doing so. 

So why do you want to add a running routine into your already-full schedule?

• You realize you need an extra dose of endorphins to get you through the day (these principles still apply to running). 
• You used to be a runner, loved how you felt, and want to get back to feeling that way
• You want to be a positive example to your kiddos. 
• You need some alone time, and want to maximize that time by also getting in a good workout.  

Or maybe it is something totally different. Whatever it may be for you, figure out what your BIG WHY is, write it down, and review it everyday. That will keep you going. 

Once you have that down, you need to:

>>> READ: 5 Secrets To Creating LifeLong Habits

Find A Good Running Route For Your Running Routine

If you're going to start to run, you'll need to figure out a good route. Just just take off without a destination. At the beginning, know where you are going to go and have a plan. When you're thinking about a running routine here are 3 things to consider:

1. Plan a route near your house

Because having to get in the car is a barrier to starting your run. And trust me, you will have enough barriers screaming at you from right inside your own head. Don't add any extra. 

So, if possible, figure out a running route that you can start from your front steps. Plus, not having to drive somewhere saves time, and we all know that spare time is precious 🙂

If running straight from your house is just NOT possible, don't sweat it. Just don't let getting in the car be the reason you don't run!

2. Run where it's not too hilly

If you're a beginner starting a running routine, those hills will be your demise. Don't try to be super women. Figure out a good, relatively flat route to start with, and the hills will come, with time, if you want them to 🙂

3. Make sure you're able to enjoy creation

For me, this is one of the most important aspects of running - being out in nature (even if it is just looking at the birds along a city sidewalk or a group of trees near your neighbors house). Nature can be very calming, and anything that helps calm you down while running is a win!

>>> READ: 7 Surprising Benefits of an Early Morning Walk for Moms

Have The Right Garb for Your Run

This is an easy one, because one of my favorite things about running is that it requires so little equipment! 

I once had a colleague who said she hated that her husband had picked such an expensive hobby. She was talking about running. WHAT? I have a feeling he was doing more running supply shopping than actual running. 

The great thing about running is that all you really need is yourself. But some basic clothing pieces are a good idea, too:

1. Sports Bra

You could go without, but (pro tip here) sports bras are worth it 🙂

2. Shorts

Any shorts will do. Don't let the marketers make you feel like you need to spend $40 on a new pair of "running shorts". Just grab an old pair that you have. I promise, they will work 🙂

3. T-Shirt

Again, don't feel pressured go buy that oh-so-cute, strappy, form fitted, "breathable" women's athletic shirt. Just grab that old high school T-shirt out of your drawer for goodness sakes and GO!

4. Shoes.

Though this is optional! Running barefoot is kind of a thing (or is it still a thing?). At least it was 10 years ago...scroll down to check out my mini shoe guide to get help if you need. 

5. Running Stroller.

If you plan to take your kiddo along with you, you might want to invest in a solid running stroller. I have tried running with a regular stroller before...trust me, you'll stay home next time. 

Here are two of my favorites: The Bob Revolution and the City Mini. 

Now that you have your Big Why, your route planned out, and your clothing basics, you need to have a:

>>> READ: Stay Fit After Kids: The Secret Power of 16 Minutes

Start A Running Routine With A Plan

If you plan to start a running routine as a true beginner, this the best piece of advice I can give you:

take it slow. 

Don't be afraid to walk. When my mom started running, she would run to a speed bump, walk to the next, run to the one after that, walk....etc. If you have some type of marker like that on your route, do something similar. If not, use time intervals to break up your run/walks. 

Here are two an example routines you could use (the second plan is harder, so you could also use these in succession):

Beginner's Running Plan 1*

Beginners Running Plan 2 (more challenging)*

*I am NOT a licensed personal trainer, and am not prescribing these routines (however, my former-personal-trainer-husband did help me put this together). This plan is based off of my and his experience. Use this plan at your own discretion. 

Running Tips To Remember When You Start A Running Routine

1. Start slow 

Literally. Ever see someone huffing and puffing, red faced, and looking like they are about to fall over dead? Then you realize their run had just started about 50 yards back. Yes, don't be that guy (or girl). Start slow. Because your body needs to time to wake up. 

2. Breath 

And try to enjoy the scenery around you. This is something my husband had to teach me to do. Before we were married he would run with me and nag me, saying "Kelsey, chill out! Relax, and enjoy the fresh air around you! Don't breath so hard!". At the time it pissed me off, to be honest. But once I learned to do what he was saying, I finally began to enjoy running.

So try it. instead of focusing your attention on how much your body hurts, try to breath a little slower, take a look around you, and enjoy the fresh air. 

3. Let some else know where you are going. 

I use to run in the wee hours of the morning, when it was still dark outside. The older I get, the more cautious I am about when and where I run. Remember to think about safety and let someone know when you are leaving the house, about how long you will be gone, and the general area of your run. It may sound like too much, but it's never a bad idea to have someone know where you are going to be. 

4. Run Outside

There is something about running outside with the fresh air that is energizing and rejuvenating. It can be tempting to run on a treadmill, but try to get outside for at least some of your runs (and running outside doesn't cost a thing!). 

5. Be Consistent On Getting Out

There will be days (many, many days) that you just do not want to get up in the morning and go on your run. That's O.K. GO ANYWAY. If you have too, just walk. The important thing is to get out the door. If telling yourself you are going to walk instead of run is what gets you out the door, then do it! Don't beat yourself up.

6. Run at the same time 

Not everyone agrees with this, but I think having a set time of day (I will always recommend mornings!) helps to get you into a rhythm. If that time of day is blocked out for running, there is less chance for distractions.

>>> READ: 5 Healthy and Energizing Breakfasts For Moms

A Quick Guide To My Favorite Running Shoes

I've run in many a pair of shoe, but definitely have a few that are my absolute favorite. If you want to start a running routine, but don't have any running shoes, here are my suggestions for places to start:

1. Altras

While these are not the most fashionable choice in running shoe, Altras are my current favorite brand of running shoe. They are a zero-drop shoe (which means your toe and heal are the same distance from the ground. Check out this article to learn more...). The toe area is wide, giving your toes room to breath.

2. Asics

If you just want to go with a more traditional running shoe, my favorite is Asics. Asics are what I wore before I decided to go the zero-drop route. There are tons of styles to choose from, so take a look around and read some reviews.

3. Saucony 

I have never run in Saucony before, but know many people that do. They tend to have more cushioning in the heel, and have a tighter toe area. Which may be good if you have a slim foot. 

4. Merrells 

Merrells are not know for running shoes, but I had a pair of Merrells for running back in college and LOVED them. They offer a super minimalist shoe, with very minimal cushioning. With that, they are definitely not for everyone, but I want to make mention of them. Disclaimer: your calves will be ON FIRE after running in these...they change the way you run, keeping you from landing on your heel. As a result, you will use your calf muscles more, and you will feel it the next day 🙂 

If you can, head over to a proper running shoe store and they will measure your foot and give you some suggestions. Otherwise, jump over to Amazon, look at reviews, and get going!

>>> READ: 5 Simple Steps To Dream Again: Tips For Moms

What does it take to start a running routine?

A lot of huffing and puffing; a lot of NOT enjoying it; a lot of self discipline; a lot of encouragement from my husband. But I was finally able to start a running routine that I loved!!

And mama, you can too. The tips and information I shared here are what helped to get me started, and my hope is that it helps you get out there and get going, too. 

It will take discipline, but

YOU'LL NEVER REGRET STARTING A RUNNING ROUTINE.

I'm rooting for you!