How to Improve your Running

Running is one of the most common sports and activities that humans participate in it. Not only is it a sport and a hobby, but you use it frequently in your every day life, such as running after your $5 bill which just blew away, or running around the bases in baseball. Whatever you do, running is important, and running faster sure is desirable. Unfortunately, the only way to get better at running is with practice. The real trick is to practice consistently, so here are some tips to help you with that.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Running shoes
• Running clothing
• A Watch

1. Purchase a good pair of running shoes. Having a bad pair of shoes that doesn't fit your feet or your style will result in inefficient running, as well as potentially injury, which would clearly slow down your training. Go to a good running store like Running Room to get fitted and purchase a comfortable pair of sneakers.
2. Purchase appropriate clothing for running in your climate(s). It's easy to skip a day of running if the weather is bad and you don't feel like going out, but by being prepared with good running gear for rain, snow, and all other conditions in your region, you can make running in any condition enjoyable.
3. Make sure you are in running form before heading out. You will get the most benefit from running when you are healthy, well-hydrated and eating a nutritious diet. Running in other conditions will be painful, tiring, and you won't get the same benefits out of it.
4. Don't overtrain. Depending on your fitness and workout schedule, you probably will not be able to run every single day. Take frequent days off to let your body recover. If you still want to condition your body, consider cross-training, doing activities such as swimming which will work on your cardio and breathing without putting stress on your legs.
5. Have something to look forward to. Set up a cool running playlist, or download your favourite podcasts and promise to listen to them only when running. If you have something to look forward to, you will be more likely to follow through on your commitment. If you love music, check out iTrain, a service which sells personalized workout music (http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-2583553-10438325).
6. Run socially. Running with a friend or group has many benefits. First you have someone to talk to, second you are more likely to follow through on your commitment, otherwise you would be letting down your buddy, and third, the competitive aspect motivates you to train harder. Alternatively, you could buy a Nike+ Sports kit for your iPod Nano and compete with other people online.
7. Plan, and then record your progress. Don't just run when you feel like it. Schedule times to run. Engrain them into your day so you don't miss them. And when your finished, record things about your run for motivation later.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a heart rate monitor to monitor your progress. Heart rate is the only true indicator of effort, because it shows how hard your heart is working. You can get a good Timex watch + HRM for under $100.
• Try to run only when you are in a good mood, so you associated positive feelings with running. It's much easier to continue a habit that you find positive.
• Don't push yourself too hard
• If you have any concerns, consult a doctor or running expert.