**GUEST POST** Written by Lindsay McClelland 

 So, you want to be a runner? It sounds easy, right? You just put on shoes and put one foot in front of the other, but then you actually start and it’s hard! That’s usually the point where most people quit, but then you miss out on all the good stuff — the friendships, the cute running gear, and of course that sweet runners high. I’ve been running for about seven years and I love it, but it wasn’t always that way. Here are my five tips to hit the ground running and enjoy it, too!

Five Runner Tips to Hit the Ground Running

Don’t run alone

 This tip has a bit to do with practical safety, but running with friends makes the process so much more fun. My long runs end up turning into gossip or therapy sessions with my running buddy. Don’t have a running buddy? Join a running club. There’s a club for all types of runners! Social running clubs, speedy running clubs, beer-loving running clubs, you name it. I found that joining running clubs (yes, I belong to several) helped keep me accountable and pushed me to run faster. The people in your club are also a source of constant information and inspiration, not to mention a reason to wake up in the morning. I host a weekly social run at Revolution Studio’s River Oaks location every Sunday morning at 7:30 am. Join me!

Sign up for a race

Running a race gives you a benchmark to see what you’re capable of! It also gives you something to work toward. And, when you commit financially, you’re more likely to actually train. And when you actually train, race day will be 100 times better and more enjoyable.

Head outside

One of my top tips for new runners is to ditch the treadmill and enjoy the great outdoors. Discover new parks, neighborhoods and explore by getting miles under your feet. By heading outside instead of the gym, you’ll learn to love (and maybe hate) different types of weather. It’s all part of the journey

Find a great playlist (or podcast)

When you’re not running with your running club or with your running friends, some sweet jams or a great podcast can make a world of distance. You’ll keep yourself entertained while learning something new or listening to your favorite song. I always try to keep one earbud in and one out so I can stay alert and aware of traffic. Safety first

Treat yourself

One of the greatest things about running is that all you need is a pair of shoes to get started. With that said, there’s nothing like getting some extra motivation from a new pair of running shoes or tank top from your favorite brand. Good gear (like running shoes that actually fit and shirts that don’t chafe) will make your running adventure more pleasant, too!

Whether you’re trying to re-discover your love for running, or starting out for the first time, I hope these tips will inspire you to love the sport as much as I do!

For anyone that is in the Houston Area contact Lindsay to learn more about her running groups. Great place to start and to meet like minded individuals

**Special Thanks to Lindsay McClelland for sharing some helpful info with my viewers. Lindsay is a digital marketing entrepreneur, yoga teacher, former collegiate swimmer and marathon runner. Her running adventures have taken her to 13 marathons (and more half marathons than she can count!), including a recent Boston Qualifying time (BQ). Lindsay is a race ambassador for the Chevron Houston Marathon and the California International Marathon**