10 Myths Many People Still Believe In

 Unproven disbeliefs arouse fear of exercise and keep many people away from running. We are busting the myths about this marvelous sport and expecting to see you at Almaty Marathon workout sessions and competitions.

1. Running must be an every-day activity

If your plans do not include participating in Olympic Games, there is no need to exercise every day. Moreover, the effect may be adverse depending on your goals. Runners are highly recommended to have due restoration and recovery, and amateurs may take some “days-off” from jogging and running and still be able to achieve good results.

2. Running practice is always about speed

No need to push yourself to the limits each running session. On the contrary, a good deal of running practice is for polishing your technique and practicing slow run. Learning to run slowly (so called “low pulse running”) is extremely important in the very beginning of your journey.  

3. Don’t run when you are over 40 

Why not? Taking up running is never late, and after 40 it may have benefits for your health and body when doing it together with a doctor’s advice and under an instructor’s supervision. You can read some inspirational stories by Almaty Marathon participants who started running being middle-aged. 

4. Running requires some expensive sneakers

Present brands offer a great variety of sneakers for every taste and wallet. Yes, the pumped up kicks like special running shoes do have their advantages, but there are affordable nice sneakers on the market too. Just make sure you follow the shoes fitting recommendations. The amazing people of Tarahumara run ultra marathons wearing sandals!

5. Running is bad for your knees

Using a right technique will save you from any harm to your knees. Some researchers also say that runners are the ones who suffer from diseases such as osteoarthritis less. 

6. Running is dangerous for your heart

Cardiologists share one view — running is one the best ways to prevent heart diseases. The key is to listen to your body, keep regular hours and the technique, and not to forget to check your health.

7. Runs are only for those who want to break their personal records

Your motivation does not matter. Mass running competitions are a great way to spend your time among those holding the same views, to enjoy the atmosphere of a celebration and holiday, and to energize yourself. For example, the distances and limits to cover them of the largest Run of Central Asia – Almaty Marathon that will take place on 28 September, will totally be fine for the runners having regular practice — and you do not have to set up the records. Registration continues on almaty-marathon.kz website.

8. Off the sofa and right into the race

Running does not require you to have previous sports achievements, but going to the start line with no preparation is dangerous and strictly prohibited.

9. It's only healthy to run in the morning

Hollywood and social networks show us a beautiful picture of morning jogging and running, but in reality, any time convenient to you is good. No adverse effect on your running practice! Be guided by your body.

10. It is important to stretch before running

A dynamic warm-up is essential before running to activate and warm up your muscles. You can stretch after your workout. If you are not sure, join the open workout sessions by Almaty Marathon.