Shape Magazine
Running Basics
Learn the drill
Adding drills to your routine can challenge your body to work harder, which means you'll burn more calories and tone more muscle while becoming a better runner. Try these to find out what you're capable of:
- Fartleks
Swedish for "speed play," fartleks are meant to be fun (remember, it's speed play). To do them, simply vary your pace based on guidelines that you make up. For example, after a warm-up, pick a tree in the distance and run fast (not all out) until you get there. Jog again until you pick out something else— yellow house or traffic light—and run fast to it. Repeat for 5 to 10 minutes, then run normally for 5 to 10 minutes and cool down. Work up to 20 to 30 minutes or longer once a week.
- Stride Drills
Most people think running is all about putting one foot in front of the other quickly; but there is technique involved—it encompasses your stride, posture, arm swing, and even how you carry your head—and simply going fast or far (or both) won't help you improve it. These drills (do them once a week) will help create a more efficient and powerful stride. After warming up, do each of the following for 30 to 60 seconds: Run while lifting your knees as high as you can. Next, exaggerate your running stride so that you bound as far as you can with each step (you'll go slower than your normal pace). Finish by running with tiny baby steps (one foot directly in front of the other). Repeat the series two or three times, then run normally for as long as you want and cool down (or just do these drills on their own).
- Long Runs
Building endurance is just as important as improving your speed and technique. Being able to hoof it for 45 minutes to an hour or more once a week will help you burn more fat and calories and make each outing more enjoyable because you're not constantly gasping for breath. Depending on your current level, "long" may mean 30 minutes—or 90. Just start with the longest duration you're currently capable of completing and gradually build from there by adding 5 minutes each week.
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Ratings & Reviews
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5 Reviews
Good advice
It was about six years ago when i reached my goal running three miles striaight without stopping to walk. This may not seem like a big deal to some, but for me this was the greatest acheivement. I always dreamed of being an advanced runner. so i told myself when i reach three miles without any rest I knew I was on my way to conquering what i thought was the immposible for me. Unforturnatley soon after my first runners high i fractured my ankle leaving me in a brace and crutches for 6 months. Since my downfall I have not yet piked up were i left off. although latley running has constantly bumping in to me abnd after reading this peice I knew it was time. I am determined because of this peice. it is simple instructions yet something that can be so extremily helpful with advancing your running technigue or learing how to run. this was inspiring. im going for a light jog rtight now
great articles about the basics of running, its so important to run in order to lose weight and you also feel better after you do it
great articles about the basics of running, its so important to run in order to lose weight and you also feel better after you do it
great articles about the basics of running, its so important to run in order to lose weight and you also feel better after you do it
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