New to Running? Start Off Easy With These 5 Flat, Short Routes

The thought of taking up running or re-starting after some time off can be daunting, but slow and steady wins the race. Start off with flat, short runs to build up your fitness and your confidence. Here are a few to get you started.

The People’s Park

place park lodge cafe

The path loop in the park is a kilometre so you know exactly the distance you’re running depending on how many laps you do. If you’re new to running, start off and see how you go with one lap. If you’re going well, try another one…and so on.   

Nature Park

This city oasis is 150 acres with a 2 km path loop. It’s a little hilly in places but it’s a lovely loop for new runners. Try one and see how you get on. And don’t worry if you have to stop and walk for a bit before you start to jog again.

River Walk

River Walk 2

The River Walk or Maypark Trail is a peaceful path along the bank of the river Suir and it’s a nice place for a flat, scenic run. You can start off in Glenville and keep running to Kings Channel or beyond.

The Anne Valley Walk, Dunhill

annevalleywalk

It’s about 9.5 km from Dunhill to Annestown and back on the glorious Anne Valley Walk. The stunning nature and wildlife all around will keep your spirits high as you jog. It’s not a loop, but you could time yourself and run 15 minutes out (or however long you want) and turn around and come back.

Waterford Greenway

Greenway

With 46 km’s from Waterford to Dungarvan, you can start your run at any of the car parks along the route. Here are some of these stages: Waterford City to Killoteran (7.5 km); Killoteran to Kilmeadan (3 km); Kilmeadan to Kilmacthomas (13.5 km); Kilmacthomas to Durrow (12 km); Durrow to Clonea Strand (6 km); and Clonea Strand to Dungarvan (4 km).

Running is a great way to keep fit and healthy. And it’s convenient and cheap. You can go at any time that suits you, as often as you like and all you need is a good pair of runners, a top and leggings or shorts. Shop local and try Alfie Hales’ or JD Sports for your running attire.

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