Now- time for the running. As mentioned earlier, there are two types of
training: distance and speed. Both are equally important in their own realms.
For beginners, however, it is better to focus on distance rather than speed. Speed
workouts are more intense, and for a body that is not accustomed to running in
general, it should be eased into a harder training.
This being said, the initial distance you run should be relative to the
shape your body is in. If you have not ran much recently, it is probably best
you begin with three miles. If the three miles seems too easy, increase the
mileage to four or five. You should not go any higher at first, as this will be
very shocking to your body. Instead, it is best that you up the mileage every
week or so.
Time yourself! A watch with a timer is essential to any runner aiming to
improve. If possible, trace out your routes before you run them, and know where
the mile marks are approximately. When you pass this point on your run, be sure
to glance at your watch and see what the time is. When you cross the next mile,
figure out what your mile pace was, and see if you slowed down, or sped up.
It is best to run even, or run negative. Now, this does not mean to run
in a depressed, gloomy matter. Running negative implies that your splits
decrease per mile, or segment that you are timing. This will be more crucial
during speed workouts; however, it is never bad to aim for on a distance run.
The opposite of this would be running positive, which is NEVER good to do. Keep
this in mind while you trek down the streets on your adventures.
When given the choice, you should always run on softer surfaces. In
order from best to worse: hard/wet sand, grass, dirt/gravel, asphalt, cement.
Cement. Cement is the worst possible surface to run on. It increases the chance
of injury, especially shin splints (which will be discussed later). Many
inexperienced runners will run on the cement, when there is an open bike lane
next to them - choose the bike lane! With this advice, you can safely enjoy
your distance running!
Wow David you sure know a lot about running. You provide interesting, helpful information about running to your audience while keeping the conversation interesting. I find it interesting that your blog appeals to a broad audience - all people, old and young, run. As as far as improvement goes, your blog could use better titles. Try having catchy titles to attract readers.
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