At the time of the initial publication of this post, social distancing due to the COVID-19 virus necessitated solo runs. Running alone in April 2020 is a social obligation, a small sacrifice for the greater good. (If you are reading this during the pandemic and still running with a buddy or group, please considering running alone for the next few weeks.) Solo runs, however, occur all the time. Your schedule, training plan, or the weather may warrant solo runs. Solo runs can be enjoyable, even ...
Training Tips
4 Ways to Stay Motivated When You’re Not Training for a Race
(This post has been updated to be relevant to the COVID-19 shutdown of races in 2020. Some previous suggestions - such as trying fitness classes or other sports such as skiing or swimming - have been removed for the time being). For many runners, seeing a marathon or half marathon on calendar provides all the motivation needed to lace up their shoes and head outside for a run. However, you can’t rely on races year-round to provide motivation. Seasonal weather or, as in the publication ...
What to Do if Your Race is Cancelled
At the publication time of this post, many races were electively canceling or postponing due to the rapid spread of COV-19. Yet cancelled races are not unheard of, such as when the New York City Marathon canceled in 2012 due to Hurricane Sandy. What should you do if your race is cancelled? Life goes on if a race is canceled, as does your training. Cancelled races are frustrating and disappointing, yet you can have alternative approaches to make the best of the situation. Know that ...
6 Steps to Start Running (and Keep Running)
Running attracts new participants each year because of its simplicity. You do not need a gym membership, a team, or very expensive equipment; you simply need a pair of shoes, some athletic clothing, and the outdoors. However, starting can be trickier than it seems. Too often, new runners are deterred by the intensity of running or injury. With these beginner tips, you can successfully start running - and keep running for as long as you wish. 1. Start with Run-Walk ...
How to Add Speedwork Without Getting Injured
Many runners want to run faster; it’s a natural desire and a clear indication of progress. In order to run faster, you have to train your body to adapt to the physiological demands of faster running. Typically, this involves speedwork. Yet speedwork increases the risk of injury - which will emphatically not make you faster. With the right approach, you can speedwork without getting injured - whether you are introducing speedwork for the first time, making your speedwork harder, or doing ...