Imagine sprinting out of the gate, full throttle. It might initially feel invigorating, but it's a surefire way to burn out quickly, right? By gradually incorporating running into your routine, you build endurance and stamina over time, steering clear of the burnout pitfall.

Try to match your current habits. If you are working out 2-3x per week, substitute 1 of those workouts for a run and then aim to add another day of running after 2 weeks.

If you are not working out, don’t aim for 5 days out of the gate. Instead, start with 2 or 3 days and add slowly.

“Setting a realistic expectation for yourself is critical,” shares Neely.

A good warm-up is dynamic and will gradually increase intensity while increasing the range of motion. Dynamic means the exercises move, and you are not holding a stretched or elongated position for longer than a few seconds. In other words, start slowly and with small movements that continually move.

Check out our “Let’s Go Running” collection on FIT4MOM On Demand for more running warm-up and stretching ideas.

Let's face it – some days, the cozy couch might seem more inviting than a jog around the block. That's where positive support swoops in like a superhero. Encouraging words from fellow moms, friends, and your FIT4MOM community act as a powerful motivator, pushing you to lace up those shoes even when the couch beckons.

“There are so many positive, really great people out there who can provide a lot of support, encouragement, inspiration and motivation! Then, there are people who are contributing to your self-doubts or frustrations. And it's okay to mute people who aren't necessarily contributing to where you need to be right now,” says Neely.