7 of the BEST RUNNING TIPS and HACKS I wish I KNEW as a Beginner runner! Get FASTER!

[@ollieflj]

When I started I think the thing that took me the longest to realise that I wished I knew was that running was as, if not more, important for my mental health as it is for my physical health. This realisation unlocked so much, such as just going out and taking in your environment (which makes running when away from home so much more rewarding), it made running slow and easy much easier and guilt free because the goal of those runs is to just enjoy them, and overall it has allowed me to manage my depression and anxiety without medication (which I know isn’t for everyone but it works for me).

[@fighterinmkiwiscience3517]

Anyone asked 😡?

[@Kimftw]

Couldnt relate more Ollie

[@Vultoor]

Nice one Ollie

[@dayanaragonzalez4904]

Running is the best therapy for any disease! I did get rid of diabetes by running + vegetarian diet.

[@hitenmakwana]

Totally relate too Ollie. There’s a beautiful calmness to my running these days plus, it’s fixed some issues with my hips and back too by making me focus on core strength and single leg strength more. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@deadspaniel8160]

I’m still a beginner but my tip is ‘avoid comparing yourself to others, focus only on yourself, your body and YOUR run’. Thanks for all your help and advice on my journey Ben🙂

[@pr9414]

Comparison is the thief of joy

[@angelafosse5955]

Same! I have also just started and am overtaken by so many but I try to remain focused on my body and running at a pace that I can complete the run without stopping rather than going fast.

[@pr9414]

@@angelafosse5955 It took me a while to adjust to zone 2 running. I'd be on a run and would get overtaken by someone and get frustrated with myself, knowing I can go faster than them. Running with an ego is good for nothing.

[@ianlowe4126]

Outstanding Video Ben. Been running 20 years 4 marathons and countless halves and my tip for a beginner is don’t think you have to literally run all of your runs! If you want to stop and walk for a bit it’s fine and it’s not a failure. Even now after all this time if I see something I like on my run , maybe a shop window or a nice garden I stop for a moment to take it in then move on. Like Ben when I first started running I thought I had to run all the way and as fast as I could and all I succeeded in doing was running fast toward injury !!! Great work Ben as always. Ian

[@GeesDrive]

For me, an everyday average runner; avoiding the obsession with pace and times was the what turned running into a habit. It got far more injuries and experienced unpleasant runs by an obsession with pace. Also exploring local trails, new routes and getting muddy are the types of runs I never would have done starting out. All the best Ben :-)

[@TheHumanBodyTalk]

🔥🔥🔥

[@Hannah_jo25]

I’m a beginner runner who has only done a couple 5ks and my goal has been to finish and have fun. If you’re new like me, my advice is to not worry about your times and just make sure you’re enjoying it so you don’t quit. The speed can come later! ☺️

[@RUPERTWRHODES]

Patience is the biggest lesson i've learned in running. In many ways it's the hardest part of running to master. Another great video, thanks Ben!

[@williamcrawford3974]

Mine would be that it's OK to take a few days off if you've got a minor injury! It's better to take that time off and avoid it turning into something serious; you'll lose hardly any fitness from a short amount of time off

[@Trailrunner1978]

My top tip: Learn from and listen to your body. Do everything from supereasypace runs with even some walking the hills up to speed tempo and all out timetrials or racing.

[@oliveuk]

Volume training made the biggest difference for me. In the past I only ran Sundays (21k) and got stuck in the 3h20 at marathons for years!!! Once I started averaging 50k a week (200k a month), this is how I finally reached sub 3h10 (Boston 2022). Also yeah, carbon shoes only work for people who fully extend their back leg and run faster than 4mins/km so don't bother with those expensive shoes if you are slower.

[@CSRunner7]

Also really agree on sleep. I’m so poorly disciplined when it comes to sleep but always get my best runs done after more rest. Also, every article you read with all elites mentions sleep and rest.

[@sambassett5]

When starting out I was guilty of falling in to the one pace trap too. Recipe for plateau and injury! Great tips Ben 👍🏼

[@Gavinfunk69]

Best tip ive got is to slow down. I was doing everything at threshold and never really enjoyed running until i slowed down.

[@erics7226]

As a beginner I only had one pace! It took time to develop the endurance and speed to allow different paces.

[@fighterinmkiwiscience3517]

Anyone asked 😡?

[@think-islam-channel]

As a beginner. Best thing I learnt was Jeffing. Walk, run, walk run. Went from medical issues caused by running, to completing a marathon and several halfs in 2 years.

[@shanewilson199]

Great video. I actually miss London when I watch these videos, especially if they’re around Greenwich. So many memories.

[@Whale15]

I’ve noticed no one ever warms up. Warming up properly as well as a cool down significantly increases performance as well as reduces injury

[@aidanoc19]

Totally agree, compare yourself to no-one but yourself a week, a month, a year ago, etc. There's always someone just out of reach. Try different events and get a feel for your calling. When you target a distance, then always try both shorter and longer distances to improve your speed and stamina in your preparation.

[@misterwalker3598]

Thanks for the reminders Ben! Recently I’ve really learnt the importance of just having some easy runs, with no race to train for I was a bit lost but regular easy runs has really helped improve my fitness (before I got covid last week and now my body is so tired!). I like using my Polar OH1 with my Garmin and keeping my HR as low as possible. Another thing is the friendliness and openness of the running community, running is more than just running, for a lot of people it’s a moment of reflection and helps their mental health. Connecting with others who value the same things has really helped me, especially during the pandemic!

[@vicpivo]

I am going to echo a lot of what others have said. Run for the enjoyment of it. Yes some runs feel easier than others but if you find you are not wanting to go then don’t beat yourself. I have just got my running mojo back after struggling with knee pain for over a year and I am having to remind myself not to over do it. Not to go from 1k to 10. Gradually build up your distance or time.

[@alexanders4911]

start with walks then throw in some shorter segments of jogging. add from there...

[@toddboucher3302]

My number one tip and a lesson I learned the hard way with his foot and ankle strength. I thought it was great running in the real high cushion shoes but what I was doing was masking my issue of my ankles really collapsing and my knee collapsing in until it caused a lot of bad IT band problems but also real bad hip problems even got to the point I could barely walk. That a coach had me do step ups in front of a mirror just got up like a cooler stepping up to it where I can see what was happening and I could see my whole Left side collapsing took a break from running I was given exercises to strengthen from my hips all the way down and everything changed. Now I kind of like minimal shoes but now as long as everything strong I can run in anything. So I just wish I knew the running higher stacked more cushion shoes yeah structure actually has to be stronger according to my old one in Coach

[@fighterinmkiwiscience3517]

Anyone asked 😡?

[@thomasslagle9715]

1. Relax 2. Relax more 3. Relax even more -- you'll be more efficient, faster and it won't hurt nearly as much.

[@mRemoy1]

A couple of thing I have learned after a few years of running: 1. You dont need underwear under your running shorts. Most running shorts have "built in underwear", and its a lot more comfortable. 2. You dont need to bring water bottle on shorter runs. You only need water on longer runs (60 mins+). 3. Elevation on treadmill to compensate for air restitance outdoor: some say you should have 1-3% elevation. But its better to run flat on treadmill so your feet gets used to higher speed and cadence. 4. Gradually add more kilometers every week. Dont run 10 kilometers one week and 100k next week.

[@pedromacd]

Best thing ever learned... join a local running club. You will be surrounded by like minded people, runners of all abilities, and learn tips and tricks along the way as you go. Ben, just to say on your tip about a metronome, that is a very high cadence, especially for a beginner, or for a very tall runner like myself. It is very hard to turn the legs over at a higher cadence when your legs are 6 foot long.

[@JackD87]

Really like tip 4. As a new runner, it’s something I’m going to try and implement for sure. I spend too much time trying to speed up the process and get myself in a position where I can hang with seasoned runners.

[@jamesotto7884]

So good to hear you also bought gel Kayanos! I did the same for years and when I really got into running I was told I was the biggest supinator the running shop had ever seen 😹

[@derrunn3r613]

Apart from these tips, I wished I had knows earlier about the importance of running slow: in particular for longer distance races (half marathons and more), it is quite important to have something like 80% of my training at a low heart rate, i.e. running slow. And that is something I found quite challenging in the beginning^^

[@alexanders4911]

actually, walking is also very important. ethipoians runners Always start there sessions w a 20 min walk n they are fast as lightening

[@derrunn3r613]

@@alexanders4911 true, absolutely no shame in walking, something I also had to learn

[@runningover50plusyankees]

Helpful video. One thing I must mention: Love the Asics Gel....

[@andrewharper4296]

Great video as always. Been running since about 2017 but just recently fallen into the same pace trap. Just tried to do an easy pace tonight but it was so windy I had to push to stay upright. 😂 My advice? As some others have said, don’t worry about anyone else. Just enjoy the run, enjoy the race and have fun. If you have to stop to get the pulse down, catch your breath or simply take in the view then do it. 😁

[@pierce9128]

Started running last year currently doing Garmin coach 5k plan for attempt on a new pb. Then looking to progress to 10k then ½marathon. Is this a good plan? Current PBS are 5k 26:06 10k 58:53 ½ 2hr36

[@CSRunner7]

Definitely that you can never have too many lovely shiny new shoes 👟 😁. I do love all Shane Benzie work so definitely agree to get his book/website.

[@kenleyojones]

I stopped watching videos that contain the annoying word "hack" but glad I watched this. Great information. Strides are really great.

[@garethmaccauley3507]

Run slower than what you think is slow. Leave the ego off Strava etc as trying to compare to others will cause injuries

[@sark255]

To get different drop in the shoes and rotate them often

[@jimdicko1483]

Great points Ben. Focus on the process is great advice. Top work buddy 🙏🏻👍🏼

[@stani2829]

That thumbnail!!!! 😲 You've come a long way Ben, great video as always 👍

[@ashleymoore7610]

Ive used Bens 10k and half marathon training plans. If you put the work in and follow the plan closely (not perfectly because things crop up!) then you will see the results you are after. I know I have

[@Runnerbreaker]

Great video not only for beginner

[@tomwood5247]

My top tip; ditch the heart monitor, gps, headphones and just run on feel. Three times world Ironman champion Chrissie Wellington never used any tech in any of her training or races!

[@alexanders4911]

could not agree more tom. u are My man

[@batschwaroff]

Great video as usual!

[@ivylovesrunning]

I run for me. I care on my run time, but I don't like to compare with anyone except myself as someone will always be faster.

[@alexanders4911]

thats My girl. could not agree more.

[@heatherhepplewhite7885]

I wish I'd understood the importance of running slower for long runs. I find it difficult to not focus on my pace. I should have done my long runs on the trails as it would have forced me to slow down and I could have avoided all kinds of injuries.

[@ZaahirJappie]

I learnt the importance of focusing on cadence and not just trying to run faster.

[@Leeroy49]

For me definitely get fitting shoes... would've prevented my first injury

[@MihaliWheeler]

Great video. Not just for beginners. I would say don't put pressure to get a PB every race

[@NR-bx6rm]

I've found mixing up my sessions had made a huge difference to my running. And running slow really does help you run fast!

[@giovanbattistafichera8439]

running slow is crucial to get to quality workouts fresh enough to be able to actually hit the paces and get the best out of it.

[@reiseleitercostarica]

Started rumning in March. First two miles a day, now three miles a day. I bought Nike React 3 because they were the best in the store and they feel fine, not perfect, but soft and springy. Are they recommended for beginners? Pace is relaxed, about 10 min mile.

[@willpascoe9201]

Great vid :)

[@nickpocock8081]

I wish I knew smiling and walking are allowed.

[@adamcampbell6445]

Wish I knew to do my long runs fasted, the first 4 months I ran after coffee and breakfast. Wasn't long before I had to stop my run or else I would crappie myself

[@SeeChadRun]

One thing I wish that I knew as a new runner was to check out Ben Parkes on KZbin ;-)

[@AdamB-]

I wish I knew that it’s you against you. I spent so long looking at others and striving to match them, and also hoping for a PB on every run! Now I am much more aware and enjoy my running so much more….

[@ChrisJusticeHK]

The links look like they have been lost… I would like to check them out!

[@rhib6816]

I wish I knew how important strength training was and that running alone is not enough to be a good runner!!

[@scottcollier9178]

My number one tip is: Don't forget your Strength & Conditioning!

[@Kelly_Ben]

I know it's a common one, but mix things up. Slow runs, fast, flat, hilly. Going out and running the same run day after day might be a comfortable way for new runners to get their feet wet, but eventually change requires... well, change!

[@charmiansteven6208]

Good socks!

[@lazydude5423]

Ben went from "Ill have her home by 8pm, sir" to "Even your wife calls me daddy"

[@simonhughes8880]

As you get older you tend to sleep less. I am in my late 50's and i am lucky if i get 5 hours sleep. My main tip is enjoy your running, don't take it so seriously.

[@alexanders4911]

i am looking for the betaflys

[@alexanders4911]

My tip. run without a watch n try running in THE nature as much as possible

[@jaredgoh9772]

How old are you Ben. And When did you started running

[@aj-runner]

Hello, keep your toe nails cut to avoid the dreaded black toe nails which can take many months to heal.

[@shanewilson199]

Got a cracker of a black toenail at the moment. I keep it cut, mainly because I’ve worn through uppers before, but this one has come from nowhere. I’m looking at it now…

[@MurhsiziJessica]

Ok even i run almost 20 year's but still not get the targer

[@mrblue4233]

I think some runners get into a Rut just running junk miles, with no sprint sessions, No fartlek, I think a 30 min run is good, if your starting off as runner,

[@cuberstu]

More miles - Less speed

[@willv88]

Yes! Hope others see this as well. If you want to work on speed, go with shorter distances or intervals - think multiple 400m runs with breaks in between. When you hit those long runs - which could be 3-4 miles for a beginner, or 10+ miles for another runner - you have to take it slower than you usually run. Don't stress all systems at once, just stress one system at a time (anaerobic vs. aerobic) to improve and avoid injuries.

[@justinstockwell6833]

I found the best tip i had was your not a teenager you need time to Recover. You cant over train but you can under rest

[@bradford_shaun_murray]

Ben

[@marccunningham3749]

I wish I knew to start running earlier

[@alexanders4911]

how old are you ben?

[@davetravis3342]

Hi Ben, I would like to buy a HRM, & am considering Garmin or Polar. I only want basic information. Any advice on which would be best? I have a Garmin 245. Would I be advised to get a Garmin HRM, or would a Polar be equally compatible with my Garmin watch? Thanks!

[@BenParkes]

If you just want the basic information.. just HR, then try Polar will be fine with your Garmin. Or a wahoo is another option.. just go with what you can get the best offer on! The Garmin HRM-Run is great, but has extra features that you’ll be paying for.

[@davetravis3342]

@@BenParkes Garmin duo or Polar H9?

[@Gerhard2770]

I wish I took up swimming, raTher than running.

[@alexanders4911]

do kenyans do all This stuff? i thought running was simple...

[@andretrlb]

What I wish I knew is the importance of stretching and strength training. I had to go through a couple of injuries to realize how much they matter

[@MrElectricSkittles]

My tip, close your mouth, watch your heart rate drop.. it's an amazing hack

[@partyguinness]

It’s okay to have a crap run.

[@nikitaw1982]

Drop as much weight as possible?

[@BenParkes]

Would be the number 1 tip on the worst tips for getting better as a runner!

[@Lescoureursfoudelasco]

Top tip for a beginning runner: Run slow and imagine you are doing it on a trampoline-feel the bounce from the floor pushing you up and use it to go forward. You’re welcome.

[@DanRuns]

Don’t buy products just because others are wearing them / promoting. Easy to be ‘all the gear no idea’ and spend £££

[@alexanders4911]

My tip nr 2. get a supportive gf