Today, I want to share fouractionableways it’s possible for you to improve your running.
This post originally appeared onStrength Running.
Running advice that’sactionablemakes me giddy.
It’s that important to me.
We talked about the most powerful ways that runners can get faster and prevent more injuries.
These lessons often fix the major problems that I see in people’s training.
Sometimes it’s a simple fix, but often it’s a combination oftraining improvementsthat result in impressive results.
I want to share fouractionableways you’ve got the option to improve your running.
They’ll be simple and incredibly easy to implement.
In fact, you’re able to start today if you’re running after you read this!
These training strategies are excerpts from my book,101 Simple Ways to be a Better Runner.
Strides are simply 20-30 second accelerations done after an easy run.
They can be done almost anywherea parking lot (just be careful!
), your street, a long driveway, or a field.
Hold that for about 2-3 seconds, and then gradually slow to a stop.
That’s one stride.
I’ve discussed strides in more detailhereif you want to delve in.
Rotate your trunk and watch the ball as you rotate it to your side.)
Running creates imbalances because it’s a repetitive movement in one plane of motion.
Counteract those imbalances with exercises in multiple planes of movement to stay healthy.
Negative splitting runs during training will increase your confidence to do it during a racewhen time really counts.
You also get a better aerobic stimulus (as in, more endurance!)
when you teach your body to run faster later in a run when you’re already tired.
It’s easiest to do these types of workouts on out-and-back runs where you could time each half exactly.
Have fun with it!
Run Different Types of Long Runs
Long runs don’t have to be the same pace.
Long runs with surges: With 1-2 miles left in your long run, start a short fartlek workout.
Simple tweaks to your training can often produce dramatic results.
You’ll probably be faster, stronger, and in better shape!
Get his latest coaching advice and free injury prevention coursehere.
Illustration by Tina Mailhot-Roberge.
Additional photos byRhett Landry,Peter Mooney,Rennett Stowe, andMark Stevens(Flickr).
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