Getting Started

Welcome

So you've decided to start running. Congratulations. You are joining a sport that reaches back many thousands of years. You'll feel some aches and pains. You'll face training hurdles. But you'll meet interesting people. And you'll have fun. You'll achieve things you never thought you could. If you stick with it, you'll feel like you've taken a trip to the fountain of youth. This page will change over time, so revisit it occasionally to see if any of the information is updated and helpful.

What To Do First

The easy answer, of course, is to come out and run. In the meantime, explore the rest of the SRRC web site. A lot of information is stored here, which can answer many questions and raise a few more. Start with the New Runner Orientation. Also, join the SRRC mailing list. It will connect you with everyone in the club, and you'll be able to see the latest information about runs and other events. It is limited to club business, so it will not clutter your inbox.

What To Do Second

Think about equipment. Proper running shoes and clothes are an important part of the sport, not because of how you will look, but because they are designed by and for runners, so you'll be comfortable. Don't spend any of your hard-earned money yet, though. Come out and run with us a few times and get some product recommendations, especially for shoes. In spite of the nearly infinite selection of running shoes out there, you'll notice that we all favor just a few brands. We also get discounts at certain stores and on line. Starting with some specific suggestions can really simplify your search for the right fit. If you still have a question just post it to the e-mail list.

Goals

Setting some kind of goal can help guide your training, especially when you're just starting. Any reasonable goal will do and can range from running for a while without stopping to finishing a race to actually winning a race. Being reasonable means taking into account your current level of fitness and how much time is realistically necessary to prepare to reach your goal. Remember: there's no rush, and gentle persistent training will make you much stronger and more reslilient than a painful crash course. Don't lose sight of the fact that we do this because it's fun.

You Don't Have to Run Alone

When you're just starting out, running alone can feel like a barrier. One of the benefits of running with the club is that it's easy to find someone to run with. If a running buddy will help you get out and make learning the ropes feel easier, just send an e-mail to the SRRC e-mail list..

What About My Questions?

We were all beginners once. Don't worry. Every question you have about running has probably been asked before, and being part of the club really does help you find answers. Don't be embarassed. We're here to help one another, and we want to make this running thing as easy as possible. So let's get started . . . .

The New Runner Orientation page answers several immediate questions about SRRC and running with the club. If you're puzzled about anything that doesn't appear to be covered at this site, just ask.

Don't Worry

Getting started is daunting, and those first couple of miles are always challenging no matter how long you've been a runner. The hardest part of any training program is the sound of the alarm in the morning. If you can roll yourself out of bed, you really have overcome the toughest hurdle.

What Next?

Join us for a few miles around South Riding. Enjoy the conversation and camaraderie. Reward yourself with a cup of coffee afterward.