5 Ways to Get a Running Start on Philly’s Upcoming Races

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Now that the new year is in full-swing and it’s time to take those resolutions and make them a reality. Always dreamed of running in one of Philly’s most iconic races? Make this your year! Between the Blue Cross Broad Street Run, The Love Run, and The Rock N Roll Half Marathon/5K, there’s something for every level of runner. This is the year to get a running start on your fitness goals and be the runner you’ve always wanted to be.

To get your running routine off on the right foot, we’ve put together 5 simple tips. Get fit, feel better and maybe even make a few new friends. Ready, set, go!

1.Pick Your Race Date

It’s hard to maintain a goal when there’s no end game in sight. Sign yourself up for a run in the spring or summer and stick to your plans. But remember to be realistic with your chosen race. If you’re a novice runner, don’t dive headfirst into a half-marathon; start with a 5K and work your way up from there. Here’s a guide to all of the upcoming 2019 races in Philadelphia.

2.Build on the Basics

We’re not saying you need to Rocky-style run up the Art Museum steps on the regular (although it does make a great workout!) but starting and sticking to a running plan begins with the basics—like a warm-up. It’s never a good idea to sprint off of your sofa and run until you’re huffing and puffing. First, you’ll want to master a series of stretches before you begin your run to avoid injury and build endurance. For the first few days, you’ll want to balance running with walking (run about thirty seconds, then walk for 2 minutes) until you feel strong enough to sustain a stride.

3.Rely on Routine

They say it takes 21 days to build a habit but it’s going to take a lot longer to acquire enough endurance to finish a race. Experts suggest proper training for a race takes between six to eight weeks. While you won’t be required to run every single day for eight weeks, 30 minutes, three days a week is a great place to start. Need a little boost to get you out the door before breakfast? Download an app like Couch to 5K. It offers daily advice, inspiration and a plan to ensure you’ll achieve your race day goals.

4.Gear Up

It might sound like just another excuse to shop, but running requires some new reliable gear. Choose a solid shoe, comfortable and breathable compression socks, and reflective gear for a night run, and you’ll want layering options (tanks, leggings, pullovers, headbands) to prepare for any kind of temperature (runs usually begin in the early hours when temperatures are much cooler). For women—make sure you have a supportive sports bra. And remember, chaffing isn’t a myth, so all runners (men and women!) should make sure they’re suited up to combat the itch.

5.Find Your Tribe

Running groups are all over the City of Brotherly Love so find your running crew and stick with them. They’ll help keep you motivated, make running fun (not a just a workout) and build race day camaraderie. Whatever’s your niche—night runs, Sunday runs, even beer runs—there’s a way to find your local tribe of like-minded runners. To find your fit click here.

Get more information on how Independence Blue Cross can be a part of your plan for health and wellness.