Many people think that in order to improve your running you
just need to put in the miles. To a certain extent this is true and practice can
make perfect. There are, however, many other things you can do to help improve
your running, whilst reducing the likelihood of injury, without pounding the
pavement every day.
1. Strength
By putting together a programme that focuses on the lower
body and core, you can strengthen all the muscles that you use whilst running
to improve your speed and stamina.
2. Mobility and
Stretching
By making sure your joints and muscles are as supple and
mobile as possible, your movement will become much easier. This will not only
improve your stride but also help you to avoid injury.
3. Hills
If you have less time to train and can’t get in the long run
you wanted, find yourself a hill and run up and down it. It sounds simple but
hill training is extremely effective as it trains the forward running motion to
the next level. When you are back on the flat you will feel like you are flying
along and when it comes to hills you will hardly notice the climb as you will
be so used to it.
4. Intervals
Short intense bursts followed by a resting jog/walk which can
be done in time or distance. By using intervals and training over and above the
speed you are used to, your heart and lungs will become more efficient and your
stamina will improve over time.
5. Multidirectional
Drills
Training in all directions gives you more well-rounded
strength. Improving your strength all-round will not only improve your stride
but also help you to avoid injury.
For any further help or guidance please come and speak to a
member of the gym team who will be happy to help.
Emma
