As someone who is new to the running game, going from couch potato to a diehard runner has taught me these valuable and ‘real’ running tips:
Thinking time
Mental performance improves when you’re active, and running is a fantastic time to generate oodles of ideas. The risk is that once you’ve warmed down and enjoyed a relaxing shower, those ideas will have escaped. Therefore scribble those ideas down as soon as you’re run is over otherwise you’ll soon forget them. I keep pen and paper by the door so as soon as I’m done running I scribble any thoughts down. I’m still on the look for a voice recording mind mapping device of sorts to capture any ideas as I have while on the go.
Location, location, location
Running in the forest rocks, but if you’re dodgy at finding your way along those forest paths then have some GVS device to hand otherwise a 5 mile run soon becomes a 10 mile one. If you get lost, a device such as the Garmin 405CX will help you find you way home.
Pacing yourself
GPS tools help you keep track of pace, but music is a fantastic means to maintain a target pace. Pick your music carefully – different genres and tempos for different runs. I plod to hip hop (90 bpm), canter to tech house (around 130 bpm), and do my best interval training to punk!
Don’t be distracted
It’s common to pick up the pace as you run past attractive passer-by’s so a run that’s rich in pretties can cause you to run out of juice by picking up a pace you can’t sustain. So let your ego go and don’t get distracted.
Do your research
Running partners are vital for inspiration and motivation when your energy runs low. Do your research before selecting a running partner. Some folk boast they’re fast but turn out to be plodders, and other are modest and say they’re ‘OK’ but then you find yourself killing yourself to keep up with them.
Don’t stop running when Summer is over
Running cross-country is the most fun. However, the rain brings several lessons:
- There’s an art to looking proud when you slip over in the mud - I haven’t mastered that yet.
- Your new trainers will get trashed at some point, so don’t be precious about getting them dirty.
Don’t go running without your common sense!
- Running with a backpack is good training. I use it when camping in the countryside to run to the local village and pick up the morning breakfast. However, load your backpack carefully with items that can survive a pounding. You may think you glide smoothly when you run but the nectarines will say otherwise!
- If you nip for a pee behind a tree then check all directions. If your chosen tree backs on to a cycle path then be prepared for whoops and holla’s when a cycle school rides past.
- Not everyone is pleased to see you. Don’t wave at Hells Angels! It’s not cool for them to wave back, especially not at people engaging in sporting activities
Addendum: Don't blog in the nude when the window cleaner is visiting.
Posted by: Chris Sainsbury | November 01, 2010 at 04:11 PM