Running Training

One step at a time

If you are looking for a fast, affordable, adaptable way to get back into shape and you don’t have any problems with high-impact activities, give running a try. It’s a wonderful way to kick-start your cardiovascular system and your metabolism, as well as improve your health and keep you feeling great!

However, too much too soon is not a good idea. The gradual approach is key, especially with high-impact activities. Running puts incredible stress on your bones, joints and muscles with every step you take. Over time, your body is able to adapt to these stresses and is better able to handle them. See below for some tips on how to run and stay injury-free:

1. Start out with a conservative weekly mileage. This will vary depending on your fitness level. You may start out at 3 x 20-minute runs per week, or if you already have some experience with running, then 5 x 30 to 35 minutes might be a good start for you.
2. Increase your weekly mileage in small increments. The most common recommendation is to increase it 5 to 10 percent per week. You can do this by either increasing the number of days you run per week, or by increasing the distance / time you run each workout. Following this protocol gives your bones, joints and muscles time to adapt to the increased impact they need to withstand.
3. Recovery days / weeks are important. Every week should have one or two rest days, meaning no running. Also, make sure to take a lower mileage week, every 3 weeks or so, as a recovery week. Getting enough recovery is almost important as the actual workouts. Just plan in an extra rest day or switch out your run with lower-impact activities such as biking or swimming.
4. Stay off the sidewalks. Yes, I realize they are there for pedestrians but sidewalks were not built with runners in mind. Concrete is the hardest surface to run on, while asphalt has a bit more give to it. Running on gravel or dirt trails is ideal, as well as grass, as long as it’s not too soft.
5. Treadmills and roads are different. If you’re a winter treadmill runner, remember that the harder surfaces of the outdoors require some transition time. Ease into your new space slowly.
6. Stretch it out! Build in some stretch time after run – at least 5 to 10 minutes is ideal. This increases flexibility and reduces recovery time for your next workout.