Top Fifteen Beginner Jogging Myths
On this page I'll talk to you about the top fifteen beginner jogging myths.
When you are a beginning runner, it may all be a bit daunting at first.
And many of us have heard things about running that we thought were true, as non-runners.
But then we started running and found out it was all a load of horse... ehh bull... ehh, nonsense, that's what I was meant to say.
So, let's get right into it and dispel some of these beginner jogging myths!
Beginner Jogging Myth #1: You Can't Run
Truth is, that it does not matter what your current level of fitness is, what your age is or what you have or have not done in the past. We can all work on our fitness levels. We can all get fitter and healthier.
You can run, you just have to be willing to give it a try. When you are severely overweight, over forty or have been smoking, it is advisable to consult a doctor before you start with a full-blown exercise program. But there is no reason to believe that you can't run!
Beginner Jogging Myth #2: You Have to Run Fast
One of the mistakes you may make as a beginning runner, is that you feel you have to run as fast as possible to get results. It is probably running mistake no. 1.
It is simply not true. It is fine, even much better, to start off slowly, at a pace just faster than running.
Why better? Well, a few reasons:
a) Because you run less risks of getting injuries when you run slower.
b) Because going slower helps you build up your endurance by improving your cardiovascular system.
I asked fans of the Best Running Tips Facebook page what they felt were the biggest myths:
Beginner Jogging Myth #3: Running is Bad for Your Knees
According to the Facebook crowd the most common myth that people brought up was "running is bad for your knees".
This is simply not true. Did you know that running (or other exercise like swimming, cycling, etc) helps improve your bone density.
Beginner Jogging Myth #4: You are a Failure if You Stop for a Walk
When you start running, you will have some difficulties to get used to it.
How sad is it that many of us never start jogging or an exercise program, because they feel embarassed that they may not be able to run very far or they may have to stop to catch their breath!
When in fact, a great way to get into running is via a run/walk program which combines running and walking.
Check out the run/walk programs on this site:
Some Other Pages You May Like
What to Do When You Lose Motivation to Run
Running in Bad Weather: A Beginner's Guide
How to Fit Running Into a Busy or Unpredictable Schedule
Getting Back on Track After a Broken Running Streak
Beginner Running Schedules: 3, 4, or 5 Days a Week
Is It Safe to Start Running If You're Overweight, Older, or Out of Shape?
Couch to 5K Plan
5k Running Tips
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About the author
Dominique de Rooij (Dom)
Advanced Running Coach certified by Athletics Australia with 20 years of writing about running and over a decade coaching runners — from first-timers to marathoners. Dom's beginner programs have guided thousands of runners and been praised above plans from Jeff Galloway, Hal Higdon, and Runner's World. Now over 50, Dom still loves trail running, parkrun, and the coffee after.
Free beginner guide • From Coach Dom
Start Running This Week, Even If Your Week Is Already Full
Most beginners don't quit for lack of motivation. They quit because their plan doesn't fit their life. The 3-Run Busy Week Starter plans your first week around the week you actually have.
- Find 3 run slots you can actually keep
- The talk test: the simple way to stop running too fast
- Your complete week 1 plan: 3 run/walk sessions, about 20 minutes each
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