Fittest Loser Tip of the Week: How to set goals
If you're serious about running, here are a few key tips:
Buy the right shoes. It's not worth skimping on cheap shoes if you end up with foot pain and possibly doctor visits to correct problems.
Dress appropriately. Dressing for the temperature can be challenging. Plan your running outfit for 20 degrees warmer than what it actually is.
Find your key to success. When embarking on a new running program, your enthusiasm is likely to start high and then dip after a short time. Find what works.
Hold yourself accountable. Some people are motivated by a running buddy or group. If you need external motivation, enlist a friend to run with you or at least keep you accountable.
Give yourself time. Know that after you start training, you're probably going to feel sore and wiped out. Let your body adjust before hanging up your running shoes for good.
Even though getting started might be difficult, keep running. All of your training will pay off and result in better health.
Look out for more weekly wellness tips from Assurance, a proud sponsor of the Fittest Loser.
• Jill Micklow is a Wellness Consultant on the Employee Benefits team at Assurance, a Top 50 U.S. insurance brokerage headquartered in Schaumburg, IL. She brings Assurance's passion for "minimizing risk and maximizing health" to clients nationwide by helping identify specific health and wellness goals and then tailoring wellness programs for short and long-term success.