Running tips for beginners: 13 simple PT-approved ways to improve your cardio fitness

So, you're searching the Internet for running tips - probably because you watched the London Marathon yesterday and are feeling inspired to lace up. 

That said, you're not entirely sure how to start running as a beginner or haven't laced up in a while. You're aware of the many benefits of running - you know, improved heart health, cardio fitness, metabolism and so on - but that doesn't change the fact that every time you head out you end up sounding like Wheezy from Toy Story.

Don't worry - you're not alone. Knowing where to start when it comes to how to run for longer can feel overwhelming, especially if you're building your fitness levels up from scratch. At times, it'll likely be pretty unpleasant - but stick with it. Everyone has to start somewhere, and with the right training plan and dedication, research shows that you should be able to manage a comfortable 5km without stopping in six to nine weeks.

Do check out our guides to strength training for running, while you're here, and if you're keen to commit to a challenge this year, our training tips for a marathon might help. 

Once you've got your base level of fitness nailed, check out our expert explainer on how to run faster, too. 

Running tips for beginners: 13 to make your hobby long term

1. Have the desire

"One of the most important elements, when you start to run, is your reason," says personal trainer Matt Roberts, who has worked with everyone from The Saturdays, to Ellie Goulding, to Naomi Campbell.

Why are you motivated to put on your shoes and pound the pavement? Is it to complete a 10k, get fit, lose weight or just get some time away from the stress of everyday life?

Everyone’s reason will be different, but the more you dig deep and find your why, the easier it'll be to keep your exercise motivation up.

2. Stick to your plan

You don't need to have the best technique in the world, next level fitness or a certain body type to be a runner - far from it.

"Anyone can run, but it does help if you're committed," says Roberts. "Set yourself a realistic goal of how many times you plan to run and stick to it. Remember to not put too much pressure on yourself at the start either. After all, running is meant to be enjoyed."

3. Invest in the right kit

Our health editor's guides to the best running trainers, best sports bras, and best gym leggings can help with that one.

"You don’t need that much kit to be a runner, but the one item I suggest you don’t compromise on is footwear. If you're running a fair amount, then get trainers that are fit to correctly support the way you run. A well-fitting pair of shoes will prevent injury and be more comfortable over longer distances," says Roberts.

4. Start slowly

Okay, so you’ve followed the advice so far - got your reason, blocked out the time and bought some shiny new running shoes - yet you can barely make it to the end of the road without having to stop to catch your breath.

The trick? Start slowly. "Set out for ten minutes and break it down into a run, walk, run cycle until your time is up. Go home, have a stretch and a bath, and enjoy the feeling of completing your first run," advises the PT.

Once that becomes easier, try to run for 15, 20, and 30 minutes, gradually building up your time on feet, he recommends. In need of a little extra help along the way? Our round ups of the best fitness apps is worth a scroll, as programmes, like the NHS approved Couch to 5km, have plans designed specifically for this kind of progress.

5. Get some help

"If you want to take your running more seriously, then it's definitely worth seeking professional advice," recommends Roberts.

Why not try the following? 

• Join a running club - in London, we love We Are Runners, Your Friendly Runners, WMN RUN and Rep Runners, but there are thousands.
• Download one of the best running apps - again, there are too many to choose from, but the Nike Training Club app provides in-ear coaching for your runs, for free.
• Download a generic training plan - Runner's World has loads of different ones based on your aim and they're all free.
• Onboard with a run coach - this is the best option if you want your training personalised to you. Our favourites are PASSA, Purdue Performance and Andy Hobdell.

The good thing about running becoming so popular is that there are options for literally everybody now, whether you're elite or just starting out. "Learning techniques from the experts is the easiest way to improve your performance and help you complete longer distances," shares Roberts. "A good training plan cannot be underestimated. Your body needs to be prepared correctly, and time spent in the gym weight training will also make a huge difference to your ability to perform," he adds.

6. Start small

"Be a minute girl instead of a mile girl," suggests Race for Life's fitness expert Lucy Wyndham-Read.

This simply means that if you’re a beginner, a really good tip is to just build up your training in minutes rather than trying to run miles. Over time, this will add up to improve your fitness enough to be able to hit that mile marker.

7. Unclench your hands

Ever heard this one before?

"A lot of women tend to clench their fists when they run," says Wyndham-Read. If you notice yourself doing this, try and relax - you could unnecessary tension and risk injury. "Unclench your hands and imagine you’re cupping a butterfly, as that takes less energy and stops any neck stress or tension."

8. Relax and find your rhythm

This one's important, but harder to apply at first.

"Apply the two Rs – always relax when you’re running and find your comfortable rhythm," advises the expert.

"If you’re uptight and running too fast, you’re not in a comfortable rhythm. Make sure you keep doing a quick check and think: rhythm, relax, rhythm, relax," says Wyndham-Read.

9. Don't run heels first

Ever wondered why all the pro runners bang on about gait all the time? The way you land when you run is actually really important - especially for injury proofing yourself.

"Avoid striking the pavement with your heels as this can contribute to back and knee pain," advises Fitness First personal trainer Andy Hall. "Landing on your forefoot instead will allow your muscles to catch your weight and reduces the impact on joints."

If you're still not sure what the heck this means, booking in a session at a store like Runner's Need might come in handy. On the treadmills in their sites, they can analyse what time of runner you are, in turn advising on what shoes might be best, too. 

10. Watch your stance

Similarly to how you land your strides, your actual strides are key to perfecting your running technique, too.

"Leaping forward and striding too far while you run is inefficient and will drain energy - fast," says Hall. "Instead, make sure you stand tall and lean slightly forward, so when you feel like you're going to fall, step forward just enough to catch yourself. This should be the length of your stride. Less motion also means less wear and tear on the joints."

11. Keep hydrated

You should always be aiming to drink around 1.5 litres of water a day - but it's especially important if you've recently taken up running as you'll lose water sweating.

"Being dehydrated can seriously affect your performance," explains Hall. Did you know? "An intensity of 50 per cent effort when hydrated can feel like 70 or 80 per cent when dehydrated." You were warned.

12. Warm up

We know, we know - you've heard this one before. But even a quick three-minute dynamic stretch - that is, not just standing still and wriggling your ankles around - can make all the difference.

"This can increase performance by up to 17 per cent. Keep your stretching dynamic, keeping away from static stretches as these can make your joints unstable," advises Hall.

Our guide to the best warm up exercises might come in handy here.

13. Cool down

Again, a couple of minutes at the end of your sweat session can make all the difference (not sure where to start? Read our guide to cool down exercises, here). 

"This allows your body to gradually work down from the state of high exertion. It also allows your muscles to remove waste products and they will be better prepared for your next training session," explains Hall.