If you’re looking to evolve as a runner, a well scheduled training plan is the best way to improve. It will help you aim for clear, achievable targets, all in service of a final goal like a race or a new personal best. However, if you’re looking for the best results, you’ll need to focus on more than just your pace and distance. Check out our tips below on nutrition, hydration, injury prevention tactics, and how to balance training with your day-to-day.
Take care of your body.
While it’s important to commit to your training plan, consider it your guiding light, rather than your drill sergeant. It’s important that you listen to your body before, during, and after every run. Always give yourself permission to adapt your workout or plan when you’re feeling the need. For example, if your plan is calling for a hard interval workout but find yourself sore, consider running easier or even taking a rest day. With a Runkeeper Training plan, you can always reschedule a workout, change your goals or let the plan adapt to your progress. To learn more about the different aches and pains that can come from running, click here.
Eat enough and stay hydrated.
One thing about running that’s universal for everyone is that it demands a lot of energy! That’s why staying hydrated and properly fuelling for your runs is crucial. You might be surprised to find out that food is one of your best training tools as you prepare for your race. It helps energize your runs, and ease your recovery. The longer your run, the more energy you’ll burn, and the more you’ll need to fuel. Check out our nutrition blogs to better understand how food can help you move.
Invest in your mobility.
As runners it’s normal to develop imbalances in your body. As you ramp-up your training in volume and intensity, addressing those imbalances is going to positively impact your performance. Simply put, the more you move, the more important it is to take time for self-care. To feel your best, consider adding 5 minutes of warmup drills, cooldown stretches, and/or foam rolling to your routine. Activities like yoga, strength workouts and mobility exercises can also help keep you feeling your best on days when you’re not running. If you’re looking for a little extra TLC, consider physio therapy or massages. It’s up to you to discover what works best for your body! For in-app solutions, check out our Sound Stretch Guided Workout series.
Commit to your long-term goals.
If you’re struggling with motivation, try the 15-minute rule! Usually, getting out the door is the hardest part, so all you have to do is commit to heading out for 15 minutes. If you’re not feeling better after 15 minutes, then you can say you gave it your best shot and try again tomorrow. Keep in mind, motivation and commitment are different. Motivation is about the now and can be fleeting. It’s harder to hold on to and can be impacted by external factors like bad weather, poor sleep or a busy schedule. Commitment however, is a constant, and is there for you even when motivation isn’t. Think of it as your reliable training buddy. Make reasonable commitments to your self, your goals and even your loved ones as a way to push yourself even when motivation isn’t coming easily.
