How to Start (or Restart) Running: A Q&A with Jeff Horowitz
There’s no better time than Spring – as the weather starts to warm and the trees start to bloom back to life – to start (or restart) running. Whether you were just hibernating through the cold months and are itching to dust off your running shoes or you are just wanting try it out to see what all the running fuss is about, one things certain, the right mindset is so key for keeping the fire inside burning long-term.
In his latest book, Think Like a Runner, Jeff Horowitz dives deep into what truly fuels a lifelong love of running—whether you’re chasing your first 5K, aiming for a marathon, or just looking for a stress-relieving run through your neighborhood after work. His practical advice, paired with personal anecdotes from his decades of experience, and accessible coaching wisdom, helps runners at every stage discover not just how to run better but why we keep coming back for more.
In this special Q&A, Jeff shares valuable insights for runners of all ages—whether you’re just starting out, returning after a break, or wondering how to adapt your running practice as you age. From setting achievable goals to avoiding injury and rediscovering the joy of the sport, Jeff offers encouragement for everyone, including seasoned athletes and those lacing up for the very first time.
For older runners, Jeff has some particularly important advice: age isn’t a barrier—it’s just another factor to consider. Running is one of the rare sports you can enjoy for a lifetime, with record-setting athletes proving that it’s never too late to start (or restart) your running journey. So, whether you’re in your 20s or celebrating your 70th birthday, there’s wisdom here to help you run smarter, stay injury-free, and—most importantly—have fun.
Let’s dive into the conversation and get inspired to think (and run) like a true runner.
Tam: You begin your book talking about “Becoming a Runner.” What do you think is the most important thing(s) for someone exploring becoming a runner to consider?
Jeff: The single most important thing is to not overthink what it means to be a runner. Many people seem to forget that there are no rules about running; anyone could do it, to any extent that they are comfortable with. You could run slow or fast, with or without walk breaks, once a week or every day. Don’t overthink yourself out of being a runner.
Tam: Is there an age limit to becoming a runner?
Tam: Is having something to “train for” a good motivator to start running?
Tam: Should a novice runner start on the roads or on a treadmill?
Tam: Does someone need a coach or training program to become a runner?
Tam: Is there non-negotiable equipment (aside from a pair of sneakers) runners need when starting out?
Tam: What is the greatest piece of advice you can give to the novice runner?
Tam: Your book includes information on Form and Types of Drills – is there a specific format or program novice runners should follow?
What advice would you give yourself as a new runner? —Tam
Comments
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Jeff’s advice about not overthinking running is spot-on! Love his emphasis on making running enjoyable rather than overwhelming. The reminder that we can run at any age and pace is truly inspiring for both beginners and returning runners.
Great Q&A! Jeff’s tips make running feel so approachable—love the idea of keeping it fun and not overthinking it. Definitely inspired to hit the trails this spring
This is a great article! It’s so encouraging to hear that anyone can be a runner, no matter their age or experience. I especially love the advice about not overthinking it and just getting out there and having fun. Makes me want to lace up my shoes!
This is an absolutely phenomenal article! Jeff’s perspective on running being accessible to everyone regardless of age or fitness level really resonates with me. His words have genuinely inspired me to lace up my shoes and get back to running again. The way he breaks down the mental barriers that often hold people back is particularly insightful and practical. Can’t wait to implement some of his training tips tomorrow morning!
Running is such a great way to stay active! I love how Jeff breaks it down for beginners.
I’d tell my newbie runner self: start slow, enjoy the journey, and don’t stress about perfection—running’s all about finding what works for you.
running feel so approachable.I love how Jeff breaks it down for beginners
Don’t turn it into something that you hate .Makes me want to lace up my shoes!
the perfect is the enemy of the good.The reminder that we can run at any age
This is such a helpful Q&A! I’ve been wanting to get back into running after a long break, and Jeff’s advice about not overthinking it and just enjoying the process is exactly what I needed to hear. Time to lace up those shoes!
This is a great Q&A! Jeff makes starting (or restarting) running seem so approachable. I especially love the point about not overthinking it. Just get out there and have fun! Definitely sharing this with my friends who are thinking about getting into running.
This is a great interview! Jeff Horowitz really breaks down the intimidation factor of running. I love his advice about just getting started and not overthinking it. Definitely gonna check out his book!
This is a great Q&A! Jeff makes running sound so approachable and fun. I especially love his advice about not overthinking it and just getting out there. Definitely feeling inspired to lace up my shoes!
Great tips for getting into running! I’ve found that starting slow really helps build motivation. Spring is such a perfect time to pick it up again. Jeff’s advice seems super practical for beginners and returners alike. Might just lace up my shoes this weekend!
What an insightful interview with Jeff Horowitz! He does an excellent job of addressing how running can seem intimidating at first. His practical suggestion to simply begin without overanalyzing things really resonates with me. I’m absolutely interested in reading his book after hearing his perspective!
What an insightful interview with Jeff Horowitz! He does an excellent job of addressing how running can seem intimidating at first. His practical suggestion to simply begin without overanalyzing things really resonates with me. I’m absolutely going to look into his book after hearing his perspective!
What an insightful interview! Jeff Horowitz does an excellent job of addressing how running can seem intimidating at first. His suggestion to simply begin without overanalyzing things really resonates with me. I’m absolutely going to look into his book—sounds like a must-read!
This is a great article! Jeff’s advice is so practical and encouraging, especially for those of us who are just starting out. I love that he emphasizes the importance of having fun and not overthinking things. Definitely gonna give running another try!
This Q&A offers practical and encouraging advice for runners of all levels, emphasizing the importance of mindset and gradual progression. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to start or restart their running journey!
This is a great interview! I love Jeff’s advice about not overthinking running and just getting out there. Makes it seem so much more approachable and fun! I might just lace up my shoes now.
This is such a great article! Jeff’s advice is so practical and encouraging. Makes me wanna lace up my shoes and hit the pavement, even though I haven’t run in ages. Time to get back on track!
Spring truly is the perfect time to reignite a passion for running, and Jeff Horowitz’s insights in Think Like a Runner sound incredibly inspiring for both beginners and seasoned athletes. His advice on setting goals, avoiding injuries, and embracing the joy of running is a great reminder that it’s never too late to start or restart your journey. If you’re looking for another unique way to spark creativity and fun this season, check out the Free AI Action Figure Generator—a great tool to create personalized and imaginative figures!
What an insightful interview! Jeff Horowitz does an excellent job of addressing how running can seem intimidating at first. His suggestion to simply begin without overanalyzing things really resonates with me. I’m absolutely going to look into his book after hearing this!
What an insightful interview with Jeff Horowitz! He does an excellent job of addressing the common fears surrounding running. His practical suggestion to simply begin without overanalyzing things really resonates with me. I’m absolutely going to look into his published work after hearing his valuable perspectives!
Inspiring to see age barriers shattered! Jeff’s emphasis on running as a lifelong joy, not a rigid routine, makes me want to lace up and just enjoy the breeze today.
Absolutely loved this Q&A with Jeff Horowitz! His insights on easing back into running are both practical and motivating. I especially appreciated his emphasis on listening to one’s body and the importance of recovery. It’s reassuring to know that taking it slow and steady is the key to building a sustainable running habit. Thanks for sharing such valuable advice!
Almost everyone I’ve met who has told me that they hate running have been running too far, so soon, too fast. Running should be fun. Don’t turn it into something that you hate.
This is such a helpful Q&A! I’ve been thinking about getting back into running, and Jeff’s advice about not overthinking it is exactly what I needed to hear. Time to dust off those sneakers!
Man, this is such a refreshing take on running! It’s easy to forget it’s about the joy, not just the miles. I mean, who hasn’t dreaded the treadmill? Getting outside is where the magic happens. Cheers to not overthinking it and just lacing up those shoes!
This is a great article! It’s super encouraging for anyone thinking about getting into running. I especially love the point about not overthinking it and just having fun. Maybe I should actually try this running thing!
thank u for sharing, good qa for running