Thinking of Starting to Run? Tips for the New Runner

Written by: Dr. Brendan Carney Kilian, Chiropractor

As we approach the New Year it is common to embark upon fitness related resolutions. Going for a regular walk or starting a run-walk program are amongst the easiest options to get started on a healthier lifestyle. With any new exercise program, you have to take some precautions as your body adapts to the new demands you are placing upon it. Here are some tips to help you get going injury free:

Get the right shoes. The one thing that you should definitely invest in when you start running is a pair of good shoes. Your gym trainers or basketball shoes aren’t going to do the job anymore. Sure, you can run in any type of shoe, but running shoes are designed specifically for runners. Generally, running shoes are a personal choice. What works for you is often going to be a bit of trial and error and rotating between shoes can also help prevent injuries.

Don’t worry if it’s hard at first. Everyone struggles with motivation sometimes, even the pros. And everyone finds running hard at some point – it’s perfectly normal to find it daunting at the beginning. Every little bit helps, just get out the door or on the treadmill and get something done for the day.

Going for a run doesn’t have to mean running the whole time. No one’s chasing you or timing you for that matter. If you get tired, take a break. Walk a bit. Find a Stop sign and try some quad or hamstring stretches while you catch your breath. Leave any self-imposed pressure or expectations at the door and eventually those stretches between breaks will start to get longer as running feels easier.

Think in time instead of distance. If metrics aren’t for you, consider ditching the run tracker and just choosing a length of time that fits with your schedule. Head out the door, start moving in one direction, and once you hit half of your allotted time, turn around and head home. Don’t stress about pace or distance – keep it simple.

Run easy and take short steps. Running is not always easy and your body develops the coordination necessary to perform the sequence of movements with every kilometer that you run. To get started just focus on short, easy steps – try to absorb the impact and keep your feet underneath you.  Long strides may help you move faster but will also increase your risk of injury.

Join a running group or find a friend. Though you should do some solo runs, there are many benefits to running with a friend or an organized group.

Your body needs time to recover. Your first run or walk went well and you want to head out again right away? Great - but you should wait a day before attempting the next workout: your body needs to rest so it can recover from the first session. Schedule your training so you run one day and rest the next.

Find a beginner’s program to follow.  Programs are available everywhere for free on the internet. Having a program to follow and a goal will help you stick with your new running plan when times get tough and/or life gets busy.

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SarniaInMotion or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sarniainmotion/.  Have a look at our videos on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGhfp7s3t7T-excGL2WidNw Feel free to share this information with your friends and family and keep checking back for new blog posts from each of our health and fitness professionals.

This is your life – Live it! Get In Motion!

Dr. Brendan Carney Kilian

Chiropractor | Clinic Director

Dr. Brendan Carney Kilian graduated from the University of Waterloo with an Honours Bachelor of Science (Kinesiology – Pre-health Professions Option) in 2002 and from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in June 2006, Magna Cum Laude with Clinic Honours. Dr. Carney Kilian has completed certification training in the area of strength and conditioning with the NSCA and has over twenty years experience in the fitness industry. He has special interests in musculoskeletal injury rehabilitation, weight management, and individualized program design. Dr. Carney Kilian has taken additional training as a Certified Golf Performance Therapist, a Spine certified Active Release Techniques® (ART) Provider and has completed the Contemporary Medical Acupuncture Course through McMaster University.. From his small town roots, Dr. Carney Kilian emphasizes a patient-centered approach that stresses patient education and long-term successes. 

Dr. Carney Kilian opened In Motion: Health – Wellness – Fitness to provide an innovative Pain Management, Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention solutions for the residents of Sarnia-Lambton.

Dr. Jane Pilkey

Chiropractor

Dr. Jane received her Honours Bachelor of Kinesiology from McMaster University and went on to graduate from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in 2011. She furthered her education by becoming a Contemporary Medical Acupuncture Provider in 2013. Dr. Jane takes special interest in prenatal and pediatric care and is working towards obtaining a residency in pediatrics through the ICPA.

Dr. Jane is an evidence based practitioner that focuses on a patient-centered approach to care; she emphasizes patient education and promotes an active lifestyle to help keep patients both pain free and fully functional. She maintains professional affiliations with the Canadian Chiropractic Association and the Ontario Chiropractic Association in addition to being a registered service provider for the Department of Veterans Affairs, RCMP, and WSIB. 

Originally from Sarnia, Jane was born into an active family and grew up a competitive figure skater, swimmer, soccer player, and golfer. Her love of sport and volunteer work as a coach and athletic trainer with various teams has resulted in immense experience dealing with athletic injuries. She looks forward to her future with In Motion and helping her clients to remain active.

Dr. Joel Simpson

Chiropractor

Dr. Joel Simpson was born and raised in Corunna. He attended Western University where he received an Honours Specialization Bachelor of Arts (Kinesiology) in 2010. From there he graduated from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in 2016.

Dr. Joel has completed his certification as a  strength and conditioning professional with the NSCA, Functional Movement Systems and Selective Functional Movement Analysis. Dr. Joel focuses on patient centred care utilizing short term and long term goals. This is done through a variety of treatment techniques in order to keep patients pain free but also maintain an active lifestyle in the future.

Amanda Sargent

Registered Massage Therapist

A local girl, Amanda Sargent was born and raised in Sarnia and attended Lambton College. Prior to becoming a Registered Massage Therapist in 2003, Amanda spent time in the healthcare setting as a nursing student and a personal support worker. Amanda has gained experience working as part of a multi-disciplinary healthcare team, at Canada’s leading facility for comprehensive healthcare assessments, and in a small family chiropractic office. Amanda has additional training in fascial release, advanced lumbar spine techniques, and Neuromuscular Integration and Structural Alignment (NISA). Amanda has special interests in pregnancy and deep tissue massage. She is excited to be back home to serve her local community as a member of In Motion’s Health Team.

Jenn Van Horne

Registered Massage Therapist

Born in Sarnia, Jenn was raised and currently resides in Corunna.  She graduated from SCITS high school and then from the 3 year massage therapy program at Lambton College in 2007.  During that time she took special interest in treating those with chronic pain.  Jenn has taken courses in soft tissue release and deep tissue massage.  She is experienced in treating MVA injuries, clients in severe, chronic pain, pregnant and elderly clients as well as repetitive strain and sports injuries.  She incorporates the use of hydrotherapy into treatments whenever indicated to aide in fully releasing the tissue.

Shelley Dixon

Registered Massage Therapist

I am a new resident of Sarnia as of August 2023. I grew up in Ingersoll, then made London my home in the early 90's. The youngest of 6 children, my parents were always encouraging us to be active and live healthy lives. I attended Fanshawe College after high school for Fitness & Health Promotion and worked at the YMCA for many years teaching Aerobic Classes and Personal Training. In my mid 20's I ran two marathons and competed in several Triathlons. Nowadays, I enjoy Yoga, walking, cycling and lifting weights.

It wasn't until I was in my 30's that I decided to go back to school for Massage Therapy at D'Arcy Lane. During my 18 plus years as an RMT, I've had the opportunity to expand my knowledge by taking such courses as: Acupressure, Ultrasound Therapy, Deep Tissue Manipulation and Thai Massage.

I have a daughter and son, and a granddaughter. My partner has two daughters and a son. Family is very important to us. I never visited Sarnia until I met my partner who was born and raised here. Over the years, and our many trips to Sarnia for family functions and outings with friends, I came to love the area. Being so close to the water is truly a perk. Now, I find myself saying "I can't believe I actually live here".

As soon as I stepped through the doors of In Motion, I knew I found my new work home. Such a comfortable environment, and a group of talented individuals who truly love what they do was evident.  As part of the In Motion Team I am excited to be working alongside other like-minded Healthcare Professionals. I am eager to learn some new skills and help my clients attain their optimal health goals.  I also look forward to meeting you soon.

Vanessa Macedo

Registered Massage Therapist

Vanessa Macedo was born and raised in Sarnia. She attended and graduated from the two-year Massage Therapy program at Lambton College in 2023. Prior to becoming a Registered Massage Therapist, Vanessa attended and graduated from the two-year Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant program at Lambton College in 2021.

As an Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant student, Vanessa has gained knowledge in human movement and therapeutic exercise. As a Registered Massage Therapist, Vanessa has experience in the treatment of traumatic brain injuries, motor vehicle accidents, individuals with developmental and physical disabilities, and a variety of soft tissue dysfunctions. Vanessa utilizes General Swedish and Non-Swedish techniques, specialized massage techniques, hydrotherapy, and therapeutic exercise in the treatment of a variety of conditions and ailments when indicated. 

Vanessa is registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) and the Registered Massage Therapists Association of Ontario (RMTAO). Vanessa is excited to be starting her career and helping our local community as a member of the In Motion health team. 

Kristi Kleinsmith

Personal Trainer

In 2000 Kristi earned herself a full tennis scholarship to Northern Illinois University where she spent four years playing tennis for the Huskies and earning her Bachelor's of Science Degree, with Honours, in Preventative and Rehabilitative Exercise Science. A minor in Exercise Gerontology was also achieved. She continued her education for two years on graduate assistantship and received her Master's of Science in Education focusing on Exercise Physiology and Fitness Leadership. Kristi has also obtained an American College of Sports Medicine certification (Certified Health and Fitness Specialist).

Kristi has experience working with people of all ages and fitness levels. She has experience working in different fitness industries such as corporate fitness, commercial fitness, and exercise gerontology. Kristi was a university professor at Northern Illinois University and Lambton College where she taught health and fitness, weight training and conditioning, tennis, volleyball, and badminton classes.

In 2018, Kristi became a Functional Patterns, Human Foundation Practitioner. This new system of personal training develops the human body as a whole organism. Learn how to correct your dysfunctions by assessing your current posture and gait cycle. Correct your biomechanics and bring the body into a state homeostasis and have it remain there for a lifetime. 

Her interests include spending time with her family outdoors, whether it is hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking, or skating. Her family likes to visit the local fruit, vegetable, and animal farms in the area. Discovering the Pinery Park and other parks in the area create new adventures and experiences. She is constantly learning more about how to be a healthy human for a lifetime and wants to share this knowledge with her family, friends, and clients.

Get ready to be motivated, encouraged, and challenged to your full potential. Let her ambitious and uplifting attitude guide you through various workouts and classes.

Adam Gray

Chiropodist

Adam was born and raised in Sarnia.  He attended the University of Waterloo for his 4 year B.A, and after completing his studies, completed a 3½ year Podiatric Medicine program, at the Michener Institute of Applied Health Sciences/ University of Toronto Campus.  In addition, he has completed 3 years of internship in the Greater Toronto Area in various hospitals and private clinics. 

As a registered Chiropodist, his specialization includes, but is not limited to: lower limb, foot, and ankle injuries (sports medicine); dermatological and nail care; soft-tissue surgeries; nail surgeries; arch pain; biomechanical assessments, footwear, and orthotics; diabetic consultation/treatment; prescriptions for NSAID’s, antibiotics, and/or antifungals; pharmacological care and injections; compression stockings; and treatment using therapeutic modalities (TENS, ultrasound. Etc.)

Jodi Rawcliffe

Office Manager

I was born in Michigan, raised in Corunna, ON.  I have more than 20 years of client relation experience and more than 10 years of managerial experience working for NCO.  In 2012 when NCO closed I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to go back to school.  I enrolled in the Medical Office Administration Program at Lambton College and graduated in 2014 at the top of my class.  While attending Lambton College I was the Campus Program Coordinator for the Ministry of Health campaign - Leave the Pack Behind, which focuses on Smoking Cessation for students.  I also gained experience working in a medical office environment as a work study and co-op student in the Lambton College Wellness Centre.I am married to my husband, Steve and we have 2 children – Alexis and Jaxon.  Alexis is currently attending the University of Ottawa and hopes to become a dentist.  Jaxon is an avid lacrosse and football player. I also have 2 furbabies – Chihuahuas, Martini and Skye.We love travelling, playing with our dogs, and watching Jaxon play lacrosse and football.

Erica Verberne

Client Relations

I was born and raised half in London, and the other half on a farm in Strathroy. I have worked in the administrative/customer service industry for 15+ years. In recent years, I have enjoyed the financial/accounting side to administration, but overall enjoy meeting new people and building on my customer service expertise. 

Among COVID downtime, I decided to become a First Aid/CPR instructor, and enjoy teaching to help build a safer community.

I love travelling, and have spent a year backpacking through New Zealand, as well as numerous trips to Key West. I have visited 16 countries so far and hope to continue exploring with my spouse, Adam, and my 3 children.

Alexis Rosandich

Client Relations

I was born in Sarnia, raised in Corunna. After graduating from SCITS highschool in 2013, I enrolled at the University of Ottawa. There, I received my Bachelor of Health Sciences and graduated in 2017.
I have two children, Scarlett, 3, and Sebastian, 2, who I have stayed home with since they were born.
In my free time I enjoy cooking and baking, especially experimenting with new recipes. I also love to read and I aim to read at least one book a week for the entire year!

Stefanie Senior

Registered Dietitian & Sports Nutritionist

Stefanie Senior is one of the leading registered dietitians and sports nutritionists in Toronto. She specializes in weight management, eating for exercise and athletic performance, and corporate wellness.Stefanie Senior, RD offers registered dietitian and sports nutrition services in the GTA and runs a private practice at Athletic Edge Sports Medicine and online via Skype for In Motion. Stefanie offers nutrition counselling, weight management programs and support groups and creates customized meal plans based on food preferences, lifestyle and goals.  Stefanie is also a professor in food and nutrition at the Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts at George Brown College and the in-house dietitian and spokesperson for the CBC Live Right Now campaign.Stefanie is a professional speaker who uses dynamic and interactive seminars to teach simple, powerful and sustainable strategies for achieving optimal health, energy and wellbeing. The energetic nutrition guru has appeared on CP24, CTV, Rogers Live, CBC television and radio, Canada AM and has interviewed for articles published in the Toronto Star, Canadian Living, Best Health Magazine, Chatelaine, the Huffington Post, and the Toronto Observer. Stefanie studied dietetics at the University of British Columbia and completed a post-graduate dietetic internship program at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto. Previous to entering the field of dietetics, she did a Bachelor of Science degree, with a major in Psychology at the University of Guelph and worked as a Personal Trainer in Vancouver, British Columbia.Stefanie has a unique approach to her practice and provides advice that is realistic, easy to follow and emphasizes stepwise change, balance and flexibility. She is a firm believer that small, gradual changes to an individual’s eating and exercising regimen coupled with patience, commitment and a positive attitude can lead to permanent lifestyle change and a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life.In her spare time, Stefanie enjoys being active, cooking, travelling and experiencing the newest restaurants and food trends in Toronto and across the globe. Stefanie is excited to join the In Motion Team to offer high quality nutrition and weight loss couseling via Skype.