Archive for the 'Training advice' Category

There is always a strong temptation to think that just churning out the miles at the same slow pace is the best approach to training. I mean, if you are trying to become a better runner, then more and more running is best, right?

Well, not exactly. Building an endurance base is clearly important, but as with most things in life, the key issue is quality over and above quantity.

The best approach is to blend different types of run – long slow distance, tempo, speed work, hill work – not only to work your muscles and aerobic system in different ways, but also to avoid the monotony and boredom. An additional benefit of blending different sorts of runs is that it may reduce the possibility of developing injuries.

According to fellow marathon runner Owen Barder, training at different paces is the most important of his 7 effective habits for marathon training.

So before you head out for your next run, think to yourself, what is my aim for this session? Am I going out just for a run? Is it just running miles for miles sake? We are all pretty time poor and so we need to make the best use of this precious resource.

Running is important to us all, so let’s make the most of it.

The body is brilliant at adapting to different conditions, both of terrain and temperature. And there is no doubt there is a real buzz from running in the cold. Wear the right clothing, take care underfoot and you are away.

But what happens when the weather gets really cold? Is it good for the body?

Evidence suggests that the body’s immune system and the way it converts stored glycogen and fat stores for energy use are different when its cold outside, and that the more you do of it, the better it is for you. You adapt. Click here to find out more on some of the science.