How to Become a Better Cross Country Runner

There is running and then there is cross country running. For those that have never done it, cross country running is a physical challenge like nothing else. Becoming a better cross country runner is a highly involved process that requires dedication and hard work.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. First, run; there is nothing more or nothing less. Becoming a better runner means running and running often. The only way to get better is to run more miles more often.

2. Learn the right diet and this means lots of carbs. Running long distances burns lots of calories and in fact it is estimated that running 20-25 miles a week requires nearly 3000 calories to maintain muscle. So what to eat? Start with a balanced diet, but up the carb intake. Carb is a bad word in the fad world, but for distance runners they are a must, so go ahead and eat Italian; often. Also, drink lots of liquids, mostly water. The body is made up of water and it needs it so fill up!

3. Run different landscapes. Cross country running is running the land,so get off the paved roads and all weather tracks. Find trails through woods, hit a path that crosses a creek and most of all find some hills and run up them.

4. Build mental strength. Running is an extremely taxing activity, so take the time to build a mental strength against the body's call to give up. Meditate and calm the mind, visualize running a course and pushing the body. Brain power can be a runner's greatest benefit.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn to decipher between normal pain and the body signalling something is wrong.