Hi! I'm an upcoming freshmen. Throughout middle school, I did soccer and track. After track season this year, I discovered my love for distance running and felt the urge to join cross country. Long story short, I will be doing soccer,cross country, and track this school year. So, do you have any tips for me, as a first time cross country runner?
My first tip would be to quit soccer :P No I’m just kidding. But, know that at some point you may have to choose between running and soccer (perhaps when you go to college or even before then). At that point, do whatever you have the most potential in. If you’re a better runner, run. If you’re a better soccer player, do it.
In terms of technical stuff, prepare yourself for this season by running now this summer! The most important 3 words in cross country are June, July, and August. That’s where the foundation is laid. For now, just go out there and run a realistic amount and distance. Progress and raise your mileage and sitacne gradually and slowly so you don’t get injured. Make sure you have good shoes too! Go to a specialty running store if you haven’t already, get fitted, and get some good shoe if you can.
My other tip: it will be hard. It won’t just be hard to complete things, but it will be hard to give your full, 100% effort some days. Running long distances is hard, but it is so so rewarding. The bonding you achieve with your team is immeasurable. The challenges you will undergo yourself is indescribable. Do your best to have a positive, passionate perspective each and every day. Look at everything like an opportunity to better yourself, but don’t forget to have fun, be with friends, and enjoy the ride. Listen to your coach. Wether you like it or not, he/she is your coach. Follow them to the ends of the earth and let them know you want to be pushed and be the best you can be. The best they can make you.