Richmond Road Runners

Supporting running in the metro Richmond area

Don Garber

Mistakes by New Runners

I am just curious what people think are the biggest mistakes that are made by people who are just taking up running.

My top two
(1) Not learning to pace themselves properly
(2) Overdressing

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Replies to This Discussion

Tyler KPermalink Reply by Tyler K on May 26, 2009 at 4:37pm
Not using different runs for different purposes (e.g. tempo runs, long runs, recovery runs).
JillianPermalink Reply by Jillian on June 15, 2009 at 3:31pm
As a newer runner, I can agree that this could be a big mistake, but many of us don't even know what these are, and have a hard time figuring out the lingo. I'm getting better (in some areas anyway), but some of the details are still elusive!
Shelly KlingerPermalink Reply by Shelly Klinger on May 26, 2009 at 6:47pm
For me, starting with a half-marathon training team at age 49 after being a casual runner, it was "one size fits all" training. I didn't realize that as a master, I needed to rest at least a day inbetween runs, to add walk breaks, and most importantly, not to be a slave to the mileage log. A year later, at 50, I'm humbled and running less frequently, doing more walking, cycling, swimming and stretching, reather than just focusing on running.
wonderfuloriousPermalink Reply by wonderfulorious on May 26, 2009 at 8:21pm
In addition to everything else said............I've noticed w/other runners...not drinking enough H20 before/during/after runs
KatoPermalink Reply by Kato on May 27, 2009 at 2:06pm
Not stretching after running. I'm guilty of that one myself, as I hurry to get breakfast!
Ken HodgePermalink Reply by Ken Hodge on May 27, 2009 at 2:29pm
My top two: Not stretching enough during or after a run, and not getting medical advice soon enough for an injury, and the third, though you only asked for two, but since it's related: thinking that because you have a running injury, you weren't made to run. 20 years ago, when I had tried running, I had a knee injury and decided my knees just weren't up to running. Some years later I mentioned this to my family doctor and he told me "of course you can run, you just need to take a break when you have an injury". Imagine that, I could have been running all that time!
Lee9wPermalink Reply by Lee9w on May 27, 2009 at 10:55pm
Not necessarily a biggest mistake, but I'll add the importance of adding in cross training. Also, something I've found that helps GREATLY is core strength training. Core training I didn't learn about until after 2-3 years of running.
TheInnkeeperPermalink Reply by TheInnkeeper on May 29, 2009 at 11:23am
1) Not listening to what your body is telling you. 'Slow down' or 'you're hurt' or 'she's cute, but you can't keep up :-)'
2) Listening to non runners about how bad runnings is for you. You are a runner, you are awesome, you keep it up!
KatoPermalink Reply by Kato on May 29, 2009 at 3:49pm
Yes. Enough of the naysayers' "Your knees will give out" or "You'll overheat." None of that has to happen if you're careful.
Daniel Christian SniderPermalink Reply by Daniel Christian Snider on May 29, 2009 at 10:13pm
1) Not understanding the importance of the proper running shoes (be sure to visit your local running store to find out whats best for you)

2) Over training. I did this when I first started out and within my first month of Cross Country I had a severe stress facture. Most recently I tried to come back from being sick in bed for 2 weeks and run a 60 mile week and ended up with micro tears in my achilles tendon after my first race back. DON'T EVER OVER-TRAIN!!!

3) New runners often aren't familiar with pacing and their own fitness level.
John NellPermalink Reply by John Nell on May 30, 2009 at 9:39pm
Running shoes are the key to long distance training. Over time, the wrong shoe will cause an injury...I made that mistake training for my first marathon. I paid good money on a quality shoe, but it was a stability and I needed a neutral cushion. Needless to say, after running longer distances in the wrong shoe cause knee problems. So, I always advise to new runners, take the time to go to a shoe store that specializes in running and have personnel who can make a professional assessment of what type of shoe is best for you. Did I also mention the socks are the second key to success? Pay the money for good socks!!

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