Are you a new runner looking for some new ways to improve your running style?
While it may not seem like it at first, running is a sport that takes a great deal of practice and effort to do well at. This is especially true if you seek to run faster or farther than you already can.
Fortunately, it’s much easier than you think. You can easily find areas in your running that you can improve on and use to your benefit. So to learn how to get better at running, keep reading below for eight great tips!
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Find Your Motivation
Finding your motivation is the first and most important step in becoming a better runner. Establish an individual, concrete goal – whether it be to finish a 5K race in under 25 minutes or to beat your personal best in a 5K race. Use it to spur yourself on, remind yourself of your reasons to run, and why you are putting in the hard work.
Hold yourself accountable and celebrate successes along the way. Enlist support from family, friends, or a running group to help keep you accountable and motivated. Consider committing to a regular training plan and tracking your progress, taking note of improvements over time.
Finally, watch inspirational videos or read encouraging quotes to push you through those tough days. And you should set achievable mini-goals to work towards that will bring your goal closer.
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Improve Your Stamina
You have to improve your stamina to get better at running. You should start with a slow and steady pace, gradually challenging yourself to run a little further and at a faster tempo. And then increase your running distance over time to build your endurance.
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Improve Your Posture
Good posture when running is keeping your head up and your back straight with slightly bent knees and your arms bent at a 90-degree angle. Make sure you swing your arms back and forth, parallel to the ground.
When running, try to keep your body in an upright line and relax your shoulders. Keep your gaze ahead of you instead of at the ground.
Lighten up your steps and land more on the balls of your feet. This makes your strides more efficient, less energy-sapping and has less impact on your body.
Another tip is to focus on leaning slightly forward, but not too much as this will put a strain on your back. Developing good posture while running can help you maximize your performance and reduce the risk of injury.
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Get the Right Gear
You should invest in a good pair of running shoes that provides cushioning and support to prevent injuries. Good running shoes will help make running easier and more enjoyable. You can check out the best shoes for overpronation to get you started.
Having the right clothing is also beneficial. Lightweight and breathable fabrics will help keep you comfortable and cool during your run. And it is also important to invest in some high-visibility clothing if you are running in low-light conditions.
Finally, find quality running accessories such as a heart rate monitor, sports watch, and hydration pack. These will help you track your performance and might even aid in your success.
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Run Intervals
This is a type of running workout that involves alternating between short periods of high intensity and longer periods of low intensity.
To get better at interval running, start by warming up to get your body prepared for the intensity. After warming up, decide on a set distance that you can run at a challenging pace, then slow down for active recovery for an equal distance. Try to increase the speed of your intervals and the length of your recoveries progressively to continue improving.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated throughout your interval training session. And make sure to cool down after each session and stretch to prevent injury and muscle soreness.
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Incorporate Strength Training Exercises
Strength training helps to build and strengthen your muscles.
A combination of light weights, barbells, and bodyweight exercises are great ways to build strength and power. You should aim to do these exercises three times a week and be sure to incorporate strength exercises that target your legs, torso, and back.
Yoga and Pilates can also help to improve your flexibility and balance, both of which are essential in running. Remember to keep the intensity of your strength training at a reasonable level.
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Vary Your Terrain
Varying your terrain keeps you from getting stuck in a running rut, allowing you to mix things up and try new things periodically. It also helps to build up strength and agility in your leg muscles, while also giving you an improved ability to handle different terrains.
Running on different surfaces can help you to become aware of the changing conditions of your environment. This allows you to increase your outdoor awareness. So you should incorporate different terrains into your running exercises, such as grass, sand, gravel, and track.
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Rest and Recover
Getting enough rest and sleep helps provide your body with the energy it needs to fuel your runs. An easy way to ensure you’re getting enough rest is to plan regular breaks in your running routine and keep track of how much you’re running.
It’s also important to spend your rest days with activities that promote muscle recovery and flexibility. You can do this with yoga or stretching.
You should explore ways to reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Take time for self-reflection or practice meditation and calm breathing techniques.
Determination Is the Key to How to Get Better at Running
By following our 8 great tips on how to get better at running, you can work towards achieving the most enjoyable running experience. You just have to stay committed and dedicated to the art of running.
So remember to train consistently, improve your form, and listen to your body for optimal physical training. What are you waiting for? Get running today!
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