Running for Beginners - do and don't tips

 Running is a great aerobic exercise with many health advantages, but not everyone can kick off running and experience the benefits without being injured. These running for beginners’ tips should help a new runner gently ease into this high-impact exercise and hopefully prevent injuries.

Running for beginners tips - the do’s

• Get yourself a great pair of running shoes. Your best investment as a runner is in a pair of quality shoes made for running. 
• Walk or jog for few minutes to get your muscles and heart rate warm up before you start running.  
• Do light stretches at the beginning and end of your run. Most people find stretching at the end their run to be more flexible because the muscles are still warm. 
• Keep your body relaxed and straight as you run. Keep your head erect and the rest of your body will be in alignment. 
• Keep your arms close to your body and bend your elbows, and fist relaxed. Keep away from excessively movement of arms except when running up a sharp hill. 
• Monitor your heart rate and keep track of the distance and speed as you run. The best device that will do that for you is a pedometer for running. 

Beginners Running Tips - the dont's

• Do not wear uncomfortable running clothes. Put on some loose fitting clothing that will enable your body to cool quicker. 
• Do not begin your run at a full speed or end abruptly. Always ease in and out of your run 
• Do not overdo your stretches before your run, neither should you skip them. Stretch lightly before and after.  
• Do not keep your head down as you run. Looking ahead of you while running will help you run faster and avoid injuries.  
• Do not land on the balls of your feet first, as this could cause injuries to your feet.  
• Do not overextend yourself. It is ok to push yourself a little harder, but you need to listen to your body. Stop when you need to.