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In the next week, millions of Americans will make a New Year’s resolution.

Some will be about swearing off a particular food or beverage, while others will promise themselves to improve their personal behavior or fitness.

There will undoubtedly be an increase in gym memberships too, with people looking to get back into running or try it out for the first time.

For those unfamiliar with the growing sport, here are some important things you need to know to hit the ground running. 

Where do I start?

It all starts with a willingness to run and a pair of good running shoes. If you have never run before, it is best to visit your local running store and speak with a shoe expert about what might work best for you. From there, think about your ultimate goal and devise a training plan around it.

What is a 5K? 

A 5K stands for five kilometers, or roughly 3.1 miles. In most cases, this is the shortest and most common race throughout the country.

It’s a great race distance for newbies, sprinters and those recovering from injury. The greater Coachella Valley has a plethora of these types of events. 

How do I train for a marathon?

Follow a training plan. One can’t train for a marathon overnight.

Most plans require you to run shorter distances a few times per week and a long distance once a week. 

Free marathon training plans are available online. Find one that works for you, and stick to it.

What happens if I get hurt?

Sometimes going to a doctor is necessary.

However in other cases, a variety of running and medical blogs can help you determine what’s hurting, why and how it can be fixed.

Try your best to not run while hurt.

Are there running groups out here?

Palm Springs Front Runners and Walkers was formed in 1997 by Phil Catalli and Lee Walton.
Palm Springs Front Runners and Walkers was formed in 1997 by Phil Catalli, left, and Lee Walton.
Palm Springs Front Runners and Walkers was formed in 1997 by Phil Catalli and Lee Walton.
Phil Catalli co-founded the club in 1997. He still meets with the group.

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  • Palm Springs Front Runners and Walkers was formed in 1997 by Phil Catalli and Lee Walton.1 of 4
  • Palm Springs Front Runners and Walkers was formed in 1997 by Phil Catalli, left, and Lee Walton.2 of 4
  • Palm Springs Front Runners and Walkers was formed in 1997 by Phil Catalli and Lee Walton.3 of 4
  • Phil Catalli co-founded the club in 1997. He still meets with the group.4 of 4

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The Coachella Valley does not have a bunch of large, organized running groups.

But there are some like the Palm Springs Front Runners and Walkers, which meet several times a week. 

Fitness: Palm Springs Front Runners and Walkers still alive and fit after 22 years

What type of running gear do I need? 

Every runner prefers to carry different things. Some of the most common items runners carry include: headlamps or reflectors, belt, identification and food. 

What do I need to eat as a runner? 

Every runner’s diet is different. That being said, it’s important to understand the difference between carbohydrates, protein and fats. Understanding how they work together and individual can help inform which foods you should eat before and after exercising. 

Gear: 5 essential pieces of gear for first-time runners

Marathon: 5 tips for first-time marathon runners

Shane Newell covers breaking news and the western Coachella Valley cities of Palm Springs, Cathedral City and Desert Hot Springs. He can be reached at Shane.Newell@DesertSun.com, (760) 778-4649 or on Twitter at @journoshane. Support local news, subscribe to The Desert Sun.

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