So today, October 19th, marked another milestone for me! I started a running habit, thanks to a batchmate of mine who has a local running club. I’ve been pondering on this thought for quite some time now in my quest for better health and fitness. I have been moderately active in Zumba classes but haven’t got the time for it lately. I have also tried, for a few months, pole fitness and dance classes, and while it was all so worth it, my time just won’t allow me to sustain it.
I thought that the run earlier today was quite easy but I wasn’t really expecting anything. It turns out, we mostly hurdled off-road routes and the terrain was challenging to say the least. For a few kilometers, it was mostly uphill and I found myself catching my breath countless times. So! this is what it means to be going on a trail run. There were areas where foliage was quite thick and we had to find our way around overgrown trees and bushes but it was surprisingly enjoyable.
This is the running group of Twins Gym, that’s me in blue, front row!
We covered more or less 7 kilometers within the Cacao and Katipunan area of Panabo City. I nearly thought of giving up because my legs hurt and on the verge of developing cramps. Thanks to the able assistance of my batchmate and other runners, I was able to sustain it to the finish line.
Here are just some of my learnings today after my very first run:
Invest in good running shoes.
Your feet will literally suffer so much during the entire activity so make sure it’s protected with good-quality and durable running shoes.
Stay hydrated.
Keep yourself hydrated during the entire run, at least take a few short gulps for easier recovery and to keep you going.
Wear comfortable sportswear.
It’s easy to move when you wear comfortable and appropriate sportswear. For women, it’s usually leggings and sleeveless dry-fit tops while for men they normally wear sports shorts and spandex tops.
A lightweight belt bag is a must.
Aside from your water bottle, a belt bag always comes in handy as a cellphone holder and for other essentials.
A sports watch is helpful, too!
This may seem like vanity but I’d say this is very important! It will allow you to track your covered mileage. Some brands also monitor your heart and blood pressure rate. So yes, a sports watch is a very great essential for would-be runners!
Well guys, so far these are the takeaways that I’ve gathered after my very first run today. Actually, I don’t want to call it a run yet. It’s more of like a jog-hike-walk sort of thing actually! But please do understand, I’m a first-timer! Till next post, see you all around, dearies!
(Photo credits: Google/ public websites/ Facebook page of Leah Funa)