Want to Join Mark Zuckerberg's 365-Mile Fitness Challenge? Check out These 5 Running Tips for Beginners
Mark Zuckerberg has been throwing down the gauntlet to himself lately with personal challenges he vows to accomplish each year. For 2016, he intends to create his very own Jarvis taking a page out of his fellow tech magnate Mr. Tony Stark's playbook. But, it seems like that wasn't enough for him.
"I have a physical challenge for 2016 as well," the Facebook CEO wrote on one of his posts. "I'm going to run 365 miles and I'd love for as many people in this community to join me as possible. Last year, I really enjoyed sharing 'A Year of Books' with this community. It was fun to read along with thousands of people across the world. We'll call this year's challenge 'A Year of Running.'"
Breaking down the numbers, Zuckerberg's fitness challenge translates to running one mile a day. But, if you haven't got the time to do it on a daily basis, doing it twice a week means running 3.5 miles (5.6 km) every session, or 2.3 miles (3.7 km) if done three times a week. For a newbie, that's like running into some brick wall (yeah, it's pun intended).
For those who are planning to join Zuckerberg, but have not logged any running minutes as of yet, here are some running tips to help you out in going about such seemingly daunting task.
Start Slow
Remember, you are not into some race competition, so, there is no point running like your life depends on it. Start at a slow pace that suits you and just build on it. This way, you also won't risk getting injured.
Invest in a Good Pair of Shoes
Running is one sport that doesn't require much investment in terms of gear and accessories, but it pays to wear good running shoes.
"Running shoes are designed to allow your foot to strike the ground properly, reducing the amount of shock that travels up your leg. They're also made to fit your foot snugly, which reduces the slipping and sliding that can lead to blisters," wrote Runner's World.
Choose a Good Run Venue
Yahoo recommends finding a good running spot that could motivate you; be it some nice path along the river, the park, or even a track or treadmill.
Run with a Friend
Invite someone to be your run buddy to help you out for some encouragement, especially, when the time comes that you'd feel burnt out.
Make Your Runs Enjoyable
Running just like any exercise and fitness activities can be really tedious at times. The key is to make it more fun, says Fitness Magazine. You can incorporate some music while running or reward yourself every milestone reached. You can also join running communities to meet new people with the same interest.