As a runner, you might think that pushing yourself to your limits is the key to achieving your personal bests. However, did you know that taking it easy is just as important for reaching your running goals? Enter the recovery run, a crucial element in any runner's training regimen, whether you're preparing for a marathon or simply looking to improve your endurance.
The intensity of a workout is increased, just like with hill runs, by stair workouts. But, because of the steep height, climbing stairs is frequently more difficult than sprinting up a moderate incline. This increased effort makes runners breathe more quickly and forcefully, which can improve their ability to use oxygen. Regular stair workouts can help runners increase their VO2max, enabling them to run faster on flat terrain
Stretching before a run has many advantages. After a run, stretching helps to enhance blood flow, which promotes muscle recovery and regeneration. By helping to remove waste and lactic acid, this therapy lowers pain in the muscles and joints. Stretching also improves the flexibility of the main running muscles, which can help to increase range of motion and reduce the possibility of overuse and muscular strain issues. To help the body get even more prepared for the next physical activity, lower the chance of muscular strain, and improve running performance, dynamic stretching is advised as part of the pre-run warm-up.
The topic of slowing down the pace during easy runs is frequently talked about, but what is considered slow? How much of a reduction in speed is necessary? To clarify this, you can watch a short video featuring Eliud Kipchoge, the world record holder in the marathon, and the NN Running Team. If this doesn't convince you to take it easy on your easy days, then perhaps nothing will.
As the spring weather beckons us outdoors, runners are hitting the pavement with a renewed sense of purpose. Whether you're training for your first 5k or your tenth marathon, hill workouts are a vital component of speed work that can benefit any runner, regardless of skill level or experience.
Researchers have found that elite runners adhere to a strict training routine to ensure optimal performance. The key factors in this regimen are planning and periodization. The athletes gradually increase their running volume over several weeks during a base phase. As the preparation becomes more specific, they increase their running volume at race-pace intensity.
If your marathon plans got delayed due to the pandemic, it's time to adjust your training schedule. Brace yourself for the familiar challenges that marathon training brings, including the inevitable aches and pains.
Braving the cold for a run demands more than just donning the latest thermal gear. As temperatures plummet, one essential step often overlooked is the warm-up routine. Dr. Andrea Fradkin, an esteemed expert in exercise science at Bloomsburg University, underscores its critical importance, particularly in the face of wintry conditions.