So you want to be the very best, like no one ever was. To catch medals is the real test, and to train to run is the cause.
But any one who wants to get into fun runs or are just curious what's with the fad has to start somewhere. Heck, apparently kids are also getting into it.
Even the first-ever Pokemon Run in the Philippines, which will feature 10,000 participants, will have kids and their parents for the one kilometer fun run.
"Majority of our participants are actually newbies. We are very, very happy that this will be helping our running community to grow more," said RUNRIO president and CEO Rio de la Cruz during the launch of the Pokemon Fun Day.
[ALSO READ: Gotta catch 'em all: First-ever PH Pokemon Run kicks off Feb. 9 as part of Pokemon Fun Day]
But what do parents, kids, kids-at-heart, and other newbies have to keep in mind when they want to start running? Isn't it too daunting to keep up with all these experienced runners?
Don't fret, we got you. Our courage will pull us through.
One Sports asked the man himself, coach Rio de la Cruz, for the basics. That way, he teaches us and we teach you.
Tip #1: "We let them love the sport. If 'di nila gusto, let's not push too much."
Running can become a family bonding activity. Yes, even if your children are still young.
The Pokemon Run even encourages it with a one kilometer fun run for parents and their kids.
Any sort of motivation should be a positive one, so they would eventually learn to love running--or even just walking. But know when to stop so they don't develop negative connotations with the sport.
Luckily, there's plenty of events during the Pokemon Run to keep kids and kids-at-heart encouraged.
"Makaka-motivate to join, lalo if maganda 'yung experience nila," de la Cruz added.
Tip #2: Keep those shoulders relaxed
Be mindful if you feel that your shoulders or your kids' shoulders are tense. Just relax, there's plenty of time.
There's no need to rotate the shoulders sideways when running, he says, just have them face forward.
Coach Rio de la Cruz also notes that the angle of the elbow when bended should be at least 90 degrees. There's also no need to swing the arms too high to the point of reaching the face either, just around the chest level is fine.
The relaxation doesn't just cover the shoulders, you should keep those hands open as well.
"If your shoulder is tense and your fist is closed, that means you are exerting extra effort just to contract your muscles," he explained.
"'Yung objective natin is to divert all the oxygenated blood to our working muscles," he added, motioning his legs.
Tip #3: Stick to your natural running form, at least for now
When you're starting out, coach Rio says you just go with the running style that feels natural to you--unless you feel something is not quite right or something is hurting.
"Kapag 'yung running form mo, nagwo-work naman sa 'yo at 'di ka na-iinjure, continue it," he says. "Unless you will be competing for a major competition."
It's a good baseline to start with.
Tip #4: Walk before you run
Break down your main goal into little achievable, well, steps.
If you're going for a five kilometer run, try starting with a shorter distance.
Coach Rio suggests first doing a walk or a jog for three kilometers. Don't think of the time and don't think of how you reach that distance.
"And then when you're comfortable, 'yung next objective mo is to run 3K without walking. Pero wala pa ring target time--as long as walang stoppage," he says.
When you've achieved this, then you can run three kilometers--with no stoppage--with a target time in mind.
"For example, I want to run 20 to 30 minutes na 3K without stop. Once you are comfortable with that, now you can do your 5K--but with the same approach," de la Cruz says.
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Step 1: Walk or run a certain distance without a target time. Feel free to stop if needed.
- Step 2: Run or jog a certain distance without stopping and without a target time.
- Step 3: Run or jog a certain distance with a target time in mind.
- Step 4: Go back to Step 1 but with an increased distance.
Try doing this exercises, such as walking or jogging, three to four times a week to improve your conditioning as well.
And of course, don't forget to do your warm-ups!
So let's go, gotta catch all those medals!
@onesportsphl POKÉMON TRAINERS, ASSEMBLE! ?? The Pokémon Fun Day has begun at SM North EDSA, bringing an exciting experience for Pokémon fans of all ages! Visitors can enjoy Trading Card Game tutorials, a Pokémon Meet & Greet, and a chance to snap a photo with a giant inflatable Pikachu! Runners will also get a chance at catching a Pikachu medal during the Pokemon Run on February 9 at the SM Mall of Asia. The adventure continues as Pokémon Fun Day travels to various SM malls nationwide until October. #OneSports #OSOnTheSpot
? original sound - OneSportsPHL
The first-ever Pokemon Fun Run will be held on February 9 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex.