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Health Tips for Young Lawyers

The Trial Run

Losing weight and getting more exercise are usually the two most popular New Year’s resolutions. Most people turn to future races as progress markers or motivation. Conveniently enough, as part of its Health Awareness project, TYLA is planning and sponsoring The Trial Run, a 5k fun run that should fit right into any exercise regime or training schedule.

The Trial Run will be held as part of the State Bar’s Annual Meeting. It is scheduled for June 28, 2014, at 7:00 a.m., at the Hilton Hotel in Austin. The race will be an event for all ages and all ability levels, encouraging lawyers attending the Annual Meeting to incorporate fitness and healthy living into their daily routines. The race will not be timed; any time lawyers take out of their busy schedules to squeeze in some exercise is a win. TYLA is encouraging its young-lawyer local affiliates across the state to host similar runs on the same date and time so that, on this one day, all across Texas, lawyers are running together.

In an effort to increase the number of young lawyers able to cross finish line, here are some 5k training tips to consider:

1. Commit to a race. You’re in luck! The Trial Run is a perfect fit!
2. Get the right gear. Nothing kills a training schedule like a physical injury. Getting the right gear can prevent running injuries, and it can also make the run a little less painful when you are just starting out. If you have never invested in a pair of good running shoes, go to a specialty shop to be evaluated and fitted with a pair specifically for your biomechanics. Also, make sure you dress for the weather, which here in Texas can mean adding tights and gloves one day and wearing shorts with a dry-fit tank the next.
3. Slow and steady. Write out a plan or training schedule to slowly work up to the 5k distance. Leave your ego at home! The best way to build fitness is to run or jog at an easy conversational pace. This keeps injuries at bay and overall fitness within your reach. If you can’t run or jog while you speak comfortably in full sentences, then walk at a conversational pace or alternate running and walking at set time intervals. Build your strength and endurance over time.
4. Phone a friend. Running is a solo sport only if you make it be. Find a running group or a buddy to help you tackle training more consistently and effectively.

With those tips in mind, mark your calendars now for The Trial Run!

Laura Pratt is an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Lubbock. The opinions expressed in this article are not the official opinions of the City of Lubbock.