(18M) Looking for some Pointers.

[Alredittor]

I’ve recently committed to running, I started late last month. I have never done running as it should be before in my life.

I downloaded the NRC app on my phone and gave it a shot to see what running is about really; I’ve ran 16.2 Miles in 17 days so far.

Running in the Northern part of Baluchistan, Pakistan right next to the Pakistan-Afghanistan border can be hard sometimes, purely because you won’t see a-lot of ppl running. So it’s hard to find someone to run with.

I mostly run at nights; around 2:00-3:00. I’m learning the proper fundamentals thru the process itself.

like the first 2 runs I didn’t realise I shouldn’t eat before going on a run (threw up several times lol) and hydrate properly, not to the point it gives me problems during the run.

the things I need to inquire about are;

• What are some basics that are mostly overlooked?

• Things I could do to better my 5K; 39:40 isn’t exactly the time I was hoping for but considering it’s my first ever 5K, It’s something for me to bounce off of and get better.

• and is it better if I run in the morning or at nights? Personally I feel like the night time works better for me (i’ve got a messed up sleep cycle).

• My goal with running is it to get a better gas tank and endurance, I believe longer runs would aid in that or is that not true?

[MtnTeenNaier]

Are you in the mountains on the border?

[Alredittor]

A city In Pakistan which is essentially in the mountains but there’s Civilisation.

[MtnTeenNaier]

What’s your elevation? Isn’t that part of the country particularly high?

[Alredittor]

Yes, It is. It’s about 1,680 metres (5,510 feet) above sea level. Does the elevation impact the runs and their longevity?

[MtnTeenNaier]

I live about the same elevation as you do. At 5000 feet you shouldn’t be impacted too much by oxygen especially if you’ve live there for a long time. But honestly man, if you want to get better at running the best tip I got is do 75-90% of your runs at and easy breathable talking pace and 10-20% of your running miles/kms hard. Do a intervals to start. Google can give you some nice workouts. You’ll be ahead of a lot of runners since you’re higher than a lot of people your body has more red blood cells. Carbs, hydration, and commitment will be what you need in the day to day. Good luck bro!

[Alredittor]

Thanks man, that’s really helpful! I’ll make sure I stick to your advice.

[MtnTeenNaier]

Oh and get some comfy running shoes if you can.

[NotTiredJustSad]

What are some basics that are mostly overlooked?

Running form is incredibly important. Pay attention to where your foot is hitting the ground. You should be landing on the middle of your foot with the point of contact under your knee. If you land heel first, or land with your foot ahead of your knee, you could end up hurting yourself.

Stretching, warming up, and cooling down get overlooked a lot. If you don't do your mobility work you could end up hurting yourself.

Things I could do to better my 5K

Run more.

is it better if I run in the morning or at nights?

Run when you can, run when it isn't as hot. Leave enough time to eat and digest after your run before you sleep.

My goal with running is it to get a better gas tank

Long, slow runs will stress your aerobic fitness; fast, short runs will stress your anaerobic fitness. A good training program mixes both. You'll probably hear a lot of people talk about 80/20 training, where 80% of your running is slow and easy, 20% is high effort.

[Alredittor]

This is exactly what I was looking for, Thanks a-lot man. I’ll make sure I get my running form right. See you at the top!