A ‘fat’ ultramarathoner wants you to know running is for everyone. Here are her 4 tips for beginners 📝

Running is often seen as a pursuit reserved for those with sleek physiques, but the story of fat ultramarathoner is rewriting that narrative. She believes heartily that running is for everyone, regardless of body size or fitness level. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of hitting the pavement—maybe you’ve even thought it’s only for skinny folks—this empowering voice is here to shatter those misconceptions.

Are you ready to embrace running as a genuine option for you? Let’s dive into her four game-changing tips for beginners!

1. Start Slow and Steady

When she began her running journey, she didn’t leap into a marathon right away. Nope, she started with brisk walks and gradually added more running intervals. It’s like building a sandcastle; you don’t dump a bucket of water on it all at once. Instead, you add it carefully to ensure it stands strong.

So, when starting out, consider adopting the run-walk method. Perhaps run for 30 seconds, then walk for a minute. Over time, you’ll find that your endurance builds, and soon you’re sprinting further than you initially thought possible!

2. Listen to Your Body

Our bodies are chatty; they communicate with us in various ways. Just like your best friend might tell you, “Hey, I need a break,” your body will too. This ultramarathoner emphasizes that it’s vital to pay attention to those cues. Feeling pain? Tired? It’s okay to rest or even take a day off.

Think of your body as a fine-tuned machine that requires oiling and maintenance. Running is not merely about pushing your limits; it’s much more effective when you respect your body’s limits. Celebrate every ‘rest day’ as an achievement in itself.

3. Embrace the Joy of Running

For her, running is not a chore; it’s a gateway to freedom and joy. She compares it to rediscovering your favorite childhood game—running should be invigorating! To reconnect with this joy, try exploring new trails, listening to your favorite tunes, or even running with a friend.

Running shouldn’t feel like a punishment; rather, it’s a celebration of your body and its abilities. Picture it like dancing; just let loose and feel the rhythm. Trust me, if you love what you’re doing, you’ll naturally gravitate towards it more.

4. Find Your Community

Let’s face it; life is better when shared. If you want to make your running journey more enjoyable, consider connecting with others. Join a local running group, or even hop onto social media where you can find countless online communities. Having a supportive tribe encourages you to lace up those shoes.

When you have friends waiting for you at the park, it’s tough to skip those training sessions. It’s akin to having a cheering crowd at a sports event—those cheers push you along!

Conclusion

Running doesn’t have to be an exclusive club where only certain body types get in. The insights from this fat ultramarathoner remind us that running truly is for everyone.

By starting slow, listening to your body, embracing joy, and finding your community, you can turn running from a daunting task into a delightful habit.

So, slip on those running shoes, and let’s hit the tracks, paths, or even your neighbourhood streets together—because every step counts!

FAQs

1. Do I need to be skinny to start running?

Absolutely not! Running is for everyone, regardless of body size. What matters is your motivation and commitment to start.

2. How often should I run as a beginner?

It’s best to start with 2-3 times a week. Listen to your body and adjust as needed!

3. What should I wear to run?

Invest in a good pair of running shoes that provide support. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.

4. Can I use running to lose weight?

While running can help with weight loss, it’s important to approach it as a holistic activity that combines enjoyment with overall health.

5. What if I hate running?

That’s okay! Try different forms of exercise that you enjoy, whether it’s cycling, swimming, or hiking. The goal is to stay active and find joy in movement.