I am wholeheartedly not a runner. Frankly, even the idea of running is deeply unappealing. 

However, each time marathon season rolls around, and I watch people effortlessly jog past me—or when I’m left behind as my friends go on a Res run—a small part of me wishes that I could just throw on a pair of sneakers and go without thinking twice.

So, here is a beginner’s guide to help you—and me—get into running: 

Buy the Right Shoes

A good pair of running shoes will make all the difference. With less chance of an injury, you’ll likely feel far more comfortable as you start to build your mileage and routine.

Your ankles will thank you for the extra support, and you won’t feel the strain of your run the next day.

HOKA’s Mach 6 sneakers are lightweight and designed for speed, which are perfect if you want something responsive as you ease into running. 

If you’re looking for a softer foam base, try the ASICS Novablast, which are cushioned but aren’t heavy and great for beginner runs. 

Run for a Time, Not a Distance

If you’re just starting, set a time you want to run for and focus on non-stop movement for that entire time, no matter the speed.

Remember that every day is different, because—realistically—you aren’t going to be able to run the same pace or distance every time. Setting a goal for 10 or 15 minutes feels much more manageable than a certain number of miles, and it takes the pressure off of your run.

If you try to hit a certain distance, you might be more caught up in how fast you’re going instead of focusing on building endurance and staying consistent. By sticking with it and gradually increasing your time, you can start to see progress week over week. 

Romanticize Your Routine

One way to make your running consistent is to make it something you actually look forward to. 

Build a playlist that feels so natural, you’ll start running to the beat. Spotify offers personal, curated running playlists based on your listening history, or you can make a song lineup based on an artist you like or the pace you want. 

Or, pick an outfit that feels comfortable but put together—whether that’s a matching set, your favorite hoodie, or new shoes that you’re excited to wear.

Run the Scenic Route

A great perk of running—so I’ve heard—is the views. 

When you run, you can explore new places you’ve been dying to visit, making the exercise feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. Instead of looping the same route, pick a coffee shop, a park, or anywhere else you haven’t been before, and run to it. 

Pick a day with good weather and shoot for finding new spots in Boston, running along the Charles River or through the North End. Consider timing the end of your run with the sunset, giving yourself something to look forward to on the trip over. 

You don’t need to magically become “a runner” to start running. Start small, keep it simple, and find ways to make it a little less painful and a little more enjoyable.

And stretch. Lots of stretching.