6 tips to improve your running style

Posted on fitness

Do you want to improve your running style? Try these 6 tips for a stronger, safer running workout!

Run, relax, repeat. But what about improving yourself? If you want to expand your running style with new techniques, then the extra kilometer would be an advantage. Regardless of whether you are training for the half marathon or are a complete beginner: With these simple but effective tips, you can master new challenges in running training:

1. Increase speed

When you run, your brain communicates with your muscles so you can improve your training efficiency. When you increase the pace, your muscles react faster and more intensely. This also explains why experienced runners get tired less quickly. To improve your running pace, try interval training. Sprint for 60-90 seconds and then slow down your speed for another five minutes. Perform around ten repetitions and see how your running style and running strength improve over time.

2. Climb hills

This may not be the easiest task, but hills are the ideal training location to improve your running style. You burn calories in the process, prevent shin pain, and challenge your body to produce lactic acid, which is important to increase speed when running. Not only will your glutes thank you for it, but also your endurance, which will significantly improve as a result. You can reach the steepest hill in no time at all.

Tip: During your next running workout, you should also run down the hill. Walk easy, raise your heels quickly and use short, quick steps to protect your joints.

3. Recharge your batteries (correctly)

It can be really easy to become a better runner. It can also be just as easy to change your eating habits. Eat carbohydrates that are easy to digest and low in fiber and fat. For a run that lasts longer than 90 minutes, try either smoothies, bananas (or peanut butter) on toast, or oatmeal with honey. Plan these meals carefully. It is better to eat something at least an hour before you get started. Around 20 minutes after your workout, you can treat yourself to a protein-rich snack to repair muscle tissue and replenish energy reserves with healthy carbohydrates.

4. Don't forget to cool down!

Skipping the warm-up routine can lead to injuries and inhibit the improvement of running training. Take five minutes after your workout to stretch your thighs, back of thighs, hips and glutes nicely. This is how you promote your flexibility by supplying your muscles with blood and oxygen. This relaxes your brain and flushes out toxins. In this way, you get rid of lactic acid and your body is well prepared for the next training session.

Tip: A proper warm-up is just as important as a cool-down. Instead of static stretches, start your workout with a 10-minute walk or jog.

5. Don't overdo it

By running too big or too heavy, they may achieve the opposite: This could result in severe shock loads from the leg and cause an injury. Instead, run with small, quick steps that only touch the ground for a short time. Which part of your foot touches the ground first depends on what feels best for you: heel, midfoot, or forefoot — all three are possible. However, you should be careful that your feet always land below the body than in front of the body.

6. Find the best posture

Good technique improves running style. Walk upright and keep the line between your ears, shoulders, and hips. Imagine that you have a thread on your head that pulls you up towards the sky. Once you have adopted the perfect, upright posture, your body will naturally want to lean forward over your ankles. Focus on the right posture and your running style will soon pay off.

Posted on fitness