Training for running

Structured training is the key to improving your performance. In this section we cover:

  • Training sessions - how to prepare for a session
  • Effective training - maximise the benefits you get from your training session
  • Warm up/cool down - what steps you should take before and after a run
  • Stretching - Mark Steinle and Neil Black, Head Physio to UK Athletics, suggest some running specific stretches
  • Running technique - find out how to improve the efficiency of your action, by Glenn Cook, coach to the GB junior triathlon squad
  • Improving performance - Mark provides tips and with Stephen Baker, accredited physiologist and advisor to the Welsh canoe team, looks at the science behind training
  • Rest and recovery - find out why you need to take a break!
  • Overtraining - how to recognise whether you've pushed it too hard, and what to do if you have
  • Cross training - Sarah Coope, ex-European triathlon champion, on the benefits of cross training for runners
  • Staying motivated - tips for those times when 'just forget it' sounds more appealing than 'just do it'!
Training for running articles... 
Training sessions for runners
Before going out for a run you should spend a bit of time preparing for the session - take a few minutes to try these suggestions.
Warming up and cooling down in running
Neil Black advises what you should do, both before and after a run to get the best out of your training sessions.
Stretching for runners

Stretching for runners by Mark Steinle

Stretching can reduce the risk of injury, reduce muscle soreness after exercise, aid recover and improve athletic performance through enhanced flexibility. You should stretch as part of every session - the full article includes basic stretches to do before and after each one.
Improving your running technique
Poor running technique can slow you down considerably - correcting these problems and changing your technique can greatly improve your running economy.
Improving your running performance
Looking at how you are training and tweaking your training plan should help you improve your running performance.
The science behind improving your running performance
Stephen Baker looks at the science behind training with a view to understanding and applying the physiological lessons to help you run faster
Drills for improving running technique
Select a few of these drills to do during a steady run, or during a session concentrating specifically on drills and you should see big improvements in your technique.
The psychology of running

The psychology of running by Carole Seheult

Sports psychology has long been accepted as a vital element for top-level performers, but many runners and their coaches still choose to give it little credence.
Rest and recovery for runners
You may think that the high intensity, big workload sessions are the most important part of a training plan. However, rest is extremely important as it encourages consistency in training quality and can be a catalyst for improved performance.
Over-training in running

Over-training in running by Mark Steinle

If you're pushing it hard, but your times are down and you're feeling more and more tired, your body could be telling you to ease off.
Cross training for runners
Training in more than one sport or activity can enhance performance in a particular sport. Sarah explains how introducing cross training will help you improve as a runner.
Cycling for runners

Cycling for runners by Victoria Wilkinson

Victoria Wilkinson explains the value and variety of cycling to help runners improve their performance.
Staying motivated in running
Following these tips should give you all the motivation you need in reaching your goals, whether you are a top class runner or looking to increase your fitness levels.
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