Written by Carrie Tsianatelis
This Tip Tuesday is for the newer less experienced runner like me.
I started running recreationally in order to keep fit and healthy as an adult. Sometimes I would run for a few months or a few years and then I would stop and get into some other form of exercise. I was not very consistent until about four years ago when I joined a Couch to 5k. After that I started running more consistently and found that I really enjoyed running. About a year ago I decided to join the Highland City Striders and since then my running has improved. These are a few things I did during that time that helped me become a better runner.
1. More Consistent Running Schedule: Before joining the HCS I was running about three times per week for 3 miles at a time. Once becoming a member, joining the group runs helped me increase my distance as well as my weekly running schedule to four times a week. At first the 5-6 miles per run was difficult but it did get easier as I adjusted. Eventually I was able to slowly work up to a 10 mile Sunday run. Running 10 miles was a huge achievement for me and something I did not think I would ever be able to do.
2. Running Friends: Another thing that helped me tremendously was finding a group of slower Striders who ran closer to my pace. It has been very helpful to have a group of people to run with and learn from. I was nervous when initially joining that I was too slow to be in the HCS. I was happy to be quickly embraced and to realized that not everyone is super speedy. We slower Striders have a group chat that we are always happy to add anyone that would like to be added. Its great to know when you attend a group run that you will have friends that are a similar pace to run with. Most importantly its so much fun!
3. Remembering I am only in competition with myself: My goals in the first year were smaller in comparison to most of the other members. My biggest goal was to feel like I belonged in this group of amazing athletes. While they were training for half marathons, marathons, ultra marathons, and other amazing races, I kept my goals small and focused on some local 5k’s and 5 mile races. These races were a great way to meet more Striders and to also see how much I was progressing. It’s ok to have smaller goals. Try not to compare yourself to other runners and make sure to celebrate your successes.
4. Track Workouts: I joined Coach Steve’s track workouts in the Spring and had no clue what I was getting myself into. I had never done a workout like this before and it was extremely challenging for me! I kept showing up to the workouts and with Coach’s encouragement the workouts became easier and I was surprised at how much I could push myself. I believe that the track workouts contributed to me having a faster pace and also made me feel more confident. Of course there were days I really struggled and did not feel strong but overall the track workouts definitely made me a better runner.
Being a part of the HCS has been one of my favorite things about 2024. Not only am I a better runner but I have also made so many new friendships and met lots of wonderful people. If you are just beginning or new to the group, remember that it is ok to be a slower Strider. You do belong. Just keep showing up and keep running!
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