RunnerMom Truths - Part I

NEVER do less than you set out to do.

This means you should be very realistic about your daily and overall goals. If you set out to run 2 miles, run the two miles, finish - no matter what. You don’t have to run the whole way, just do the mileage you set out to do. This is very important for your psyche and it will keep you moving forward. If you have trouble with the mileage you set out to do, revise and reduce! I want you to be and feel successful.

Shorten your stride when going up or down a hill.

Take smaller steps when going up or down a hill.This will help a lot with avoiding shin splints and fatigue.

Keep your eyes focused ahead of you - not down.

Focus on the lamppost way ahead of you, or a particular tree. The point is to look forward and not down. It will make the distance go faster for you. I don’t know the physics of how/why this works, but try it, you will be amazed.

Be Careful!

Don’t run through actual pain. Aches, stitches, temporary stuff is ok, pain is not.

Trust me, don’t be a hero. If you are experiencing pain, walk home and figure out the cause.

If you get dizzy - stop and walk immediately.

I’m no doctor (even though 15 years in oncology might qualify me! Ha,ha), but I know this from my own experience. Getting dizzy is usually a sign of dehydration. You need to stop and get water or a sports drink ASAP. The problem with continuing to run when you’re dizzy is that it will only get worse and you can fall or get nauseous. Throwing up is never fun!

ALWAYS wear your running shoes when you run! No exceptions.

You’re getting tired of me taking about the darn shoes…but it’s really important. Get running shoes and use them only for running. Don’t wear them when you garden or wash the floors.