As an avid runner and health enthusiast, Laura Motes trains regularly to run in 5k runs. She says that this race length, the equivalent of 3.1 miles, is one of the best races for new runners to attempt. She believes that anyone, no matter how new to the running world, can get ready for a 5k run in only a few months. For those who wish to run their first 5k, but have not yet learned to run a single mile, there are some very basic steps that you can follow.
Laura recommends starting out with a mixture of walking and running. She always makes sure to start each run with a fifteen-minute warm-up and a fifteen-minute cool down time. She also states that stretching is incredibly important, so the runner does not cramp up during or after the run. According to Laura, once you are able to run a mile at a standard pace, it can take as little as eight weeks to get ready for a 5k run.
While training for a 5k, it is important to schedule your exercise and rest days appropriately. Motes says that every runner, no matter how advanced, needs to allow two days a week for rest. Rest is crucial for the health of the runner. Without the proper amount of rest, the athlete can become physically and mentally overtaxed. This will eventually lead to injury. Laura Motes believes that everyone should learn to run.