Keep on running

The annual Hong Kong marathon is over, so has all the hype got you thinking maybe you should begin running? If you’d like to try but don’t know how to get started, you may consider what Olympic marathon representative Christy Yiu has to say:

Outdoor vs indoor running

Running outdoors is very different to running on a treadmill. A treadmill can only go forward; but outdoors, you have all sorts of situations that train different muscles. What’s more, running outdoors strengthens a runner’s awareness of what’s going on around him/her and so lessens the chance of an accident happening.

Morning vs evening runs

Running in the morning might not be easy, but it is more productive. Running at night could affect the quality of your sleep and there may not be enough time for stretching and massage.

Thick- vs thin-soled running shoes 

Buy running shoes that are about half a size larger than usual because shoes that are too big sap your energy and cause blisters to form easily. Half and full marathon runners can choose different types of shoes according to their training plans. Beginners who want to buy only one type of shoe should consider medium-soled shoes.

Are compression pants and socks a must?

Not really. World-class runners can complete a marathon in 2-3 hours, so they won’t notice much of an effect. However, since beginners may take 5 hours or more, they might feel their legs becoming heavy, and so compression pants and socks could help. Just remember they shouldn’t be too tight!

A lot of new runners start out by jogging – either by themselves or with friends. Wanting to advance, they might then try a running class. But how much of a difference will taking a class really make? Let’s hear what Christy thinks!

*While competing or training, please pay close attention to your physical condition. Should you feel unwell, please seek the advice and assistance of licensed medical professionals.