Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

This is kind of a specific question/need but hear me out:

I need to learn how to run. I know that sounds silly. I have been athletic my entire life and always played sports, keep in good shape, etc. But I have NEVER been a runner. Even when I played tons of sports in HS, when we had to run the mile, I still had difficulty and hated it at the same time.

I can bike ride - 12 miles, no problem. I can do lots of other activities so it's almost like I need to "learn" how to run.

Can someone recommend a personal trainer who would do this? And perhaps a cost? Or a number of the person and I'll call and ask regarding cost? I live in the Smithtown area. I'm looking to start with three times a week, learn the basics of running and how to run long distance, and then work my way up.

I have a goal of being able to run two miles in about fifteen or so minutes.

TIA!!

Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

You don't need a trainer to learn how to run - you just do it. Check out some books from the library or Google proper form and you're on your way. Stand up straight, arms at 90 degrees and make sure your foot does a mid-strike and not strictly a heel strike or a front foot strike.

Proper running shoes are the main thing - go to a running store and get properly fitted otherwise you will hurt your knees. I get mine from Runner's Edge in Farmingdale, but I know they have other locations.

I used the C25K app on my phone to get into running as it eases you into it. 2 miles in 15 minutes is fast for a beginner and some people (like me) can only do 1 mile in around 12 minutes no matter how hard I try to increase my speed.

Also, running on a treadmill is extremely different than running outside on a HS track or pavement. I recommend running on a HS track first because it's spongier and easier on the joints in the beginning and then run on pavement a couple times a week to get used to it.

That's my $.02.

Re: Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

I don't have any reccs but I do agree that running is surprisingly not as easy as it seems and having a personal trainer may be beneficial to some people. I ran track for years in HS and used to run long distance as an adult. I had improper form for years and unfortunately ended up severely damaging my knees to the point where I can NEVER run again. I've worn away all the cartilage between my knee caps and since my knees are in so much pain, my feet over pronate to compensate for the knee pain, which has now caused sciatica in my back and hips. The two most important things in running is proper fitting shoes and good form. If I could go back in time, I would have invested in better shoes (gotten fitted properly) and hired a trainer.

Re: Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

I used to HATE running. Then back in 2012 I challenged myself to start. I went to Runner's Edge in Farmingdale and invested in a good pair of running sneakers. I used the C25K app which gradually eased me into it. By the middle of 2013, I was running 6 miles a day and averaging 10 minutes/miles Then of course I got pregnant, and had my daughter, and when I finally got myself back into it again (earlier this year), I found out I was pregnant again. I plan to get back into my routine this coming spring after this baby is born and the weather is good.

Re: Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

I was never a runner and then 2 years ago I started running with a group and I pushed my DD in a jogging stroller. We ran 3 time a week. I also didn't run with music. The sound of my feet hitting the pavement helped me with my breathing and stride. Now, they stopped the group and I miss running outside. I don't like doing it alone, I didn't even talk to anyone. I run on the treadmill but it's not the same.

Get yourself sneakers, good ones, and go :)

Re: Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

Are you sure you want to run? Not being snarky but it's not for everyone.

I could run for days but put me in a pool and I'm dying after one lap. I've come to accept I'm just not a swimmer and never will be.

Point is, just start and if you hate it, stop. Important thing is to enjoy activity so you do it and reap the health benefits. Doesn't really matter what it is.

Since I'm always in and out of shape, here's how I restart each time. Focus only on length of workout. Run as slow as possible. Start for 5 mins then walk 2 mins, etc. you will be surprised how quickly you can reduce the walking and then not walk at all. I always try to start with improving my endurance then once I'm running 30-45-60 mins non stop I try to pick up the pace. My start is only barely faster than walking. I'm not ashamed, just happy I do something

Having a cute running outfit and good shoes helps with the motivation. Dry fit is essential!

Edited to add: I could never run 2 miles in 15 mins and I've done half marathons. I'm never "fast" even in good shape. I'm ok with that. Make your goal realistic and make a harder one once you reach it!

Message edited 12/28/2015 5:14:03 PM.

Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

C25k. You can get the app on your phone. It's fantastic.

Re: Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

I don't have a recommendation on any type of coach, I did like most others and started on my own.

However, for sneakers I recommend the store in Huntington. One of the workers stayed with me for 1.5 hours until we found the perfect shoe. They have running clubs too if you want to run with people. I never can because of my work schedule but wish I could.

I think you are in the Smithtown area and there is a store there as well, but I personally had a terrible experience there and would never go back or recommend them at all.

Re: Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

The couch to 5k program is great if you're not really an active person. To get to a 7:30min/mi pace it's probably not your best bet. You need to incorporate Fartlek's and strength work to get faster.

You also mentioned wanting to learn to run long distance - so 2 miles fast and long distance are different. If you want to do both, train for distance first, then speed.

There are a ton of different ways to approach this. A lot of running is mental, especially running fast (I mean, it's a lot physical too, but thats easier to me).

I would recommend going down to the Smithtown Running Company (I personally go to Sayville, same company) and seeking guidance there. You def. need a good pair of shoes first.

I just ran a half, and now I'm training speed for a 5k and following Hal Higdon's plans, I always trust his plans.

Learning how to run / Personal Trainer Recs?

Get a good pair of sneakers and a heart rate monitor. My trainer made us buy a Garmin and it really helped. You can buy one on amazon for $70.