Supporting running in the metro Richmond area
Beginners
Information
Every runner was once a beginner. This group is for people who are just starting to run.
Members: 222
Latest Activity: May 15
Ten Tips for Beginners
Lots of new runners get carried away and try to do too much too soon. This can lead to disappointment, loss of enthusiasm and possibly injury. If you want to be able to enjoy running for the rest of your life, start out slowly and build up.
2. You may need to check with a doctor before you start running
You should get a medical check up if you are over 60 and unused to a lot of exercise, or if you may be in danger of having a heart condition which could be triggered by running. Use your common sense: if in doubt, see your doctor.
3. Keep a running log
A running log is a place where you record each run that you do. It is excellent for motivation. It also provides useful information which you can use as you improve, to see what works for you. You can use a pen and notebook, your personal organizer (PDA), or a spreadsheet on your computer.
4. Set yourself a goal
It helps to have something to aim for. This could might be running in a 5km race, or losing a stone. Make sure your goal is something achievable. If your goal is to run a marathon, you might want to set yourself some milestones (such as completing a half marathon) on the way. Whatever your level, it is exciting and motivating to see how you are improving and to reach your goals.
5. Stretch
There are few runners who would not benefit from running half an hour a week less, and using that half an hour a week for stretching instead. Stretching makes muscles more flexible and reduces the chance of injury.
6. Get decent running shoes
One of the benefits of running is that you do not need to spend a fortune on it. The one essential item is a pair of running shoes, and you should not scrimp on getting the right pair for you. (If you are a woman, you also need a decent sports bra). Go to a specialist running shop, not a general sports store. Three of our sponsors offer excellent advice on running shoes: Runner Bill's Sports, 3Sports, and The Roadrunner Running Store.
7. Join a running club
Well we would say this, wouldn't we! Seriously, running clubs are an excellent source of advice and inspiration for beginners. The Richmond Road Runners Club welcomes total beginners, and we have a starter group for people who are just starting to run (Saturday morning run at Byrd Park; see group runs for details). Remember: we have all been beginners at some time. We love running and we are excited to welcome new people into the sport.
8. Run safely
Research (in the US) shows that most (73%) accidents involving vehicles and runners are the fault of the runner, not the driver. Take responsibility for your own safety.
9. Drink lots of water and eat properly
Runners burn up more energy than non-runners, both while they are running (at about 100 calories a mile) and afterwards. So you need to eat more, and you need to consume more of your calories as carbohydrate. You also need drink plenty of water - keep a bottle of water on your desk and sip during the day.
10. Keep on enjoying running
Don't let running become just another stress in your life. Don't set yourself such a rigid or time-consuming timetable that you struggle to achieve it. Give yourself breaks - a day a week, and month each year - when you don't run at all.
Message Board
Morning run downtown or chesterfield 1 Reply
Started by Laurie Carter. Last reply by Rachael Mar 27.
Looking for a running partner in the Chester area 11 Replies
Started by Kristen. Last reply by GT Jan 18.
Richmond RELAY Marathon!!
Started by Shannon Roberts Jan 5.
Comment Wall
Comment
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Comment by Heilbron on December 23, 2012 at 5:28pm -
Hi, I am a 47 year old mom of a 10 year old St. Christopher's boy, just getting back in to running after a 5 year break due to injury. I am more of a jogger than a runner, but hope to eventually get my speed back up. My 1st goal is to work up to a 12 minute mile. I live in the Museum District near Monument Avenue. My best time to run is between 5:30-7:00 am. I also love to walk, too! Is anyone interested in joining me? I like to chat OR am very happy to listen to my ipod. Lete me know!
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Comment by Tricia Dunlap on August 11, 2012 at 1:37pm -
Hi everyone -- I'll be at Thomas Dale HS (Chester) tomorrow morning, Sunday Aug 12, 2012 at 7:30 AM for a 3 mile run at about 10 mm. Join me if you can! Meet in the parking lot near the trailers/ football stadium on the Curtis Elem side of the building.
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Comment by Jennifer Johnston on March 17, 2012 at 3:31pm -
I just ran my very first 5K ever this morning, the Forest Hill 5K Fun Run. I want to Run the Monument Avenue 10K, or try at least!!! I would love to find a group to run with every week to meet some people who actually like to run, and maybe some people to stick with during Monument Avenue!! I live right near Forest Hill Park if anyone is near that area.
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Comment by Ethan Liu on March 11, 2012 at 10:59pm -
echo lake park loop. which is springfield rd. turning in to francistown rd. about 5-6 miles. email ytel1013@hotmail.com. probably 10-12 min mile pace.
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Comment by Superhero for CASA on January 31, 2012 at 5:02pm -
Comment by Superhero for CASA4 minutes ago Delete Comment
If you love kids, fun, and fitness you won't want to miss the ...
If you want to run a great fast and flat course and have a heck of a lot of fun join us at the ...
3rd Annual CASA Superhero 5K Race, Kids’ Run and Family Fun Event
April 28, 2012 from 9am to 12pm – St. Joseph's Villa
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Comment by Louise Lockett on November 7, 2011 at 12:53pm
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Working on my first marathon in March, looking for a running partner in the Midlo area. I can do early morning or evening runs and weekends.
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Comment by Eva Battle on September 14, 2011 at 4:07pm
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This is for the beginning runner group in the Mary Munford Area. Is there a group running? I would like to join in.
Thx-
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Comment by Melissa Moore on July 25, 2011 at 7:22pm -
Beginning Runner - Mary Munford Area. I would like to run evenings 630p or so. Don't really even know where to run. I do have children so my running days may vary. Will be doing the Pony Pasture 5K this weekend to kick things off. This should be interesting!
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Comment by Shannon Curtin on July 5, 2011 at 2:01pm -
I haven't replied back in such a long time and I have not run in such a long time either. I am going to start going week day mornings in the west end area at around 545 am. I am also going to do at least Saturday or Sunday mornings at around 8 am...I am open to where for the runs on weekends in case anyone has any spots/routes and would like to meet up?!?
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Comment by Sean Leonard on June 19, 2011 at 10:15am
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Looking for a running partner in the Chester/Courthouse area. I am running 5k and 10k races currently and looking to try a half marathon.
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