Here are a few basics to get you on the road to a good running technique. If you have any hints that help you and you’d like me to post them, email me at m.chapman3@lancaster.ac.uk. Thanks to Maxim magazine and www.realbuzz.com for the tips.
Get eating!
It’s not really advisable to run on an empty stomach, but also make sure you don’t have a full English breakfast before you run or you can make yourself sick. It makes sense to have plenty of energy for running, so have something sensible to eat around an hour/an hour and a half before you run. A small bowl of cereal, egg or beans on toast, a small portion of pasta, a flapjack or a sports drink or all good ideas.
Style yourself!
Every runner has preferences on the clothes they run in, so find out what is right for you. A good pair of vented running shorts, a pair of trackster bottoms, jogging bottoms, light t-shirts are all perfect. Remember that clothing gets damp as you run and sweat, so bear in mind that rough clothing can become heavy and cause chafing which can be uncomfortable. Choose your gear wisely!
Put your best foot forward
The benefit of good running shoes cannot be understated – they are really make all the difference. Having decent shoes can vastly reduce the risk of injuries and strains and improve performance. A proper gait analysis in a professional running shop can help you find the perfect running shoes for you. The shoes can be costly though, so if you can’t afford these prices, find a comfortable brand that work for you. Remember to keep your feet warm and dry to ensure total foot health!!
Stretch!
Stretching before a run is advisable, but after a run it is crucial. Failure to stretch after a long run can result in serious strains and a lot of pain. Take our advice, watch what we do and make sure you stretch after your run. Warming up and cooling down is really important – you may not notice the difference now but you certainly will in the future. Remember that each step on a run is impact equivalent of 4x your total body weight on your knees. Look after yourself now!!
Drink up!
Remember how much moisture you’ve lost during your run, and drink plenty of water to rehydrate yourself after your run. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrating. The body reacts badly to lack of essential fluids and salts, so make sure you have a couple of large glasses of water when you are cooling down.
Be good to yourself!
Remember to treat yourself after an achievement. An hour’s worth of running is a lot of exercise, so have a nice long rest when you get back. Have a nice dinner, get cleaned up, relax for a while, go to bed early. There’s nothing wrong with going straight to the Sugarhouse after you’ve cleaned up after your run, but avoid doing this every time and your body will thank you for it….
Make friends!
Talking whilst running is a good idea, because it helps you meet people in the club and is also a good gauge of performance. If you are running and cannot hold a conversation, chances are you’re pushing yourself too hard. Run steadily, chat to people and push yourself if you feel like it. You’ll be surprised how quickly your performance improves!!