The 4 Important Tips Every Beginner Needs to Know

Training
A runner checks her watch before a run

NO BOUNDARIES MENTOR JOHN SILVA, SHARES SAGE ADVICE

A group of people run a race together

It’s not always easy to start a training program and stick with it. Creating a new habit is one of the hardest things you can do. So, if you’re starting a running training program, read these four important training tips from John Silva. Silva is a former Fleet Feet No Boundaries participant who took the slow and steady approach to training to initiate a lifestyle change. Read his incredible story here.

#1. TRAIN WITH A SUPPORTIVE GROUP.

Group training offers an innate togetherness. You don’t want to let yourself down, much less each other. Plus, if you work with a group like No Boundaries, you have coaches that will help you focus on a clear goal (a race), and encourage you every step of the way. Remember, anything is achievable with hard work.

#2. HAVE CONFIDENCE IN YOURSELF.

You don’t have to be a Runner’s World cover model to be a runner. … Anyone can get out there and do it. Maybe you won't be the fastest, and maybe you won’t have the best Instagram picture, but you can run if you put in the effort. I’m not a lean, rugged, super athletic-looking guy; I’m just a normal dude who’s carrying a little extra weight, and I’m out there doing the races. It's amazing what you can do when you find the confidence.

#3. SET THE RIGHT GOALS.

Set a clear goal that you can achieve. Most people can’t qualify for the Boston marathon the first time out the door, and that’s OK. It’s important to set a realistic goal, achieve it, and then look to the next one. It doesn’t have to be a bigger goal, just a goal that keeps you going.

#4. KNOW WHY YOU ARE DOING IT.

Along with your goal, find your why and really understand it. There will be times you want to quit so bad that a goal won’t keep you going as much as a good why.