Keep a Comfortable Pace

long-runsIf this is just one of your first attempts at a longer run, time shouldn’t be a major concern. That’s why it’s important to pace yourself throughout the run. You’ll have plenty of chances to improve your time once you have prepared your body to run your longer route. Keeping a steady pace will keep you from getting burned out near the end of your route. It also allows you to focus on your breathing, which will improve your energy and keep you running. If you do this, you may find that when you go out the next time, you feel compelled to lengthen your distance a little. Pace is especially important if you are new to running. If you “go all out” during your first longer runs, you might feel as if you need to shorten your distance, when in reality, you just need to pace yourself for the distance you’ve chosen. Remember, you’ll have plenty of time to increase your speed after you’ve become comfortable with your long run distance.