Every year, on the first Wednesday in June, the world celebrates the sport of running for Global Running Day. This day plays an important role, reminding us of the positives that running can offer and the power of unification.

And probably more than ever before, the importance of running and the benefits it can have – both for our physical and mental health, has been recognised in recent months.

With the country on lockdown and restrictions in place due to coronavirus, people around the globe have been lacing up, going outside and running to make the most of their daily exercise.

So, if you haven’t already given it a go, now is the perfect time to start.

But “I can’t run”?

OK, so you’ve never run before, but that doesn’t mean you can’t and shouldn’t. All too often phrases such as “I’m not a runner”, “I don’t run”, or “I could never run” are used by people to excuse themselves from running.

The truth is, these probably are just excuses. You don’t have to be Usain Bolt, Mo Farah or Paula Radcliffe to be a runner. You just have to put on a pair of trainers, step outside and believe in yourself.

No one’s expecting you to run a marathon – or even a mile for that matter. A run can be however long or short you want it to be. The reality is, there are no expectations; it’s entirely up to you how far and how fast you go.

Of course, it’s always good to set yourself a goal though. Having a goal will keep you focused and will give your runs meaning as you work towards reaching that end goal. And the best part about setting yourself a goal? There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of achieving something you once thought you wouldn’t or couldn’t do.

Need a little help?

Doing something for the first time can be difficult; knowing what to do, where to start, and how to keep it up. So, if you need some guidance and a little motivation, we advise following a Couch to 5K plan.

Public Health England is working in partnership with BBC Get Inspired, Sport England and London Sport and have launched a nine-week Couch to 5K challenge.

All you need to do is download the app for Apple or Android and with a flexible programme to follow, some top trainers to support and motivate you and much more, they’ll have you running 5K confidently in nine weeks.

So, whether it’s to stay active and healthy, release anxiety, gain perspective, cope with cabin fever, or to keep up your wellbeing, give running a go and see what you can achieve.

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If you’re starting out, or you’ve been doing it for years, share your progress with us on social media @hoststudentsuk. Check back here on our News page for regular updates, tips and advice on looking after your health and wellbeing.