Just Getting Started

Do you want to start running and just aren't sure how to get started? You're not alone! Sometimes just getting started is the hardest step. You can do this! Legend has it that decades ago Zig Ziglar decided to start running. So, one fine day he heads out for a run. On his 1st day, he ran less than 1 city block.

  You have to start somewhere, right? Think small in the beginning. Go as far as you feel comfortable. Then walk until your heart rate returns to a more normal state and you are breathing easier. Then do it all over again! Each day, build on your progress - a little at a time. In a few weeks you just might be surprised at your progress!

 Try this -

 Week 1: Run for just 1 minute. Then, keep moving - Walk 90 seconds. Repeat eight times. Do three times this first week.

Week 2: Run two minutes. Walk for a minute or two. Then, repeat seven times. Do three times during your second week.

Week 3: Run for 3 minutes. Walk for at least one minute. Repeat six times. Do three times during week 3.

Week 4: Run five minutes. Walk two minutes. Repeat four times. Do three times a week.

 Week 5: Run for 8 minutes. Walk two minutes. Repeat three times. Try to go 4 days this week.

 Week 6: Run twelve minutes. Walk for 3 minutes. Repeat three times. Do 3 or 4 times a week.

 Week 7: Run fifteen minutes. Walk 5 minutes. Run fifteen more minutes. Walk 5 again. Go 4 times this week.

Week 8: Run for twenty minutes. Walk for 5. Run another 15 or 20. Then, walk for 5 or ten minutes. Always take time to cool down after a nice run.

 Coach John Wooden used to urge his players to "Keep Moving". Whatever your fitness goals are, perhaps you too can benefit from Coach's timeless wisdom