How to Relax when you Run

Running is a great way to relax. However, a big part of this is learning how not to tense up, but run relaxed. This article will show you how to relax when you run.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Do a "Body Check".
   
   When you're running, start from the top of your body and work your way down, feeling for places that are tense.

2. Focus on any tense places that you have found and try to open up and relax those specific areas.

3. Do a "breath check." Take a few minutes and feel how you are breathing. Is it deep and controlled? Or is it short and quick?

4. If you're huffing and puffing through the run and feel short of breath, take a couple deep breaths that last for a couple strides. As your breathing, you should be having longer , controlled breaths that provide you with enough oxygen. Unless you're doing a stress run where you are pushing yourself, your breathing should mimic your relaxed body. You should focus on keeping a relaxed breath.

5. Exhale deliberately. During your focused deep breaths, make sure you are exhaling deliberately and getting rid of any stress or tension you feel when you're running.

6. Do a Stride Check. Make sure your stride is comfortable and relaxed. This should be at a pace where you are floating along, not uncomfortable and edgy.

7. If all those don't work, slow down, or even stop, and walk around for a bit. Catch your breath, and run through these steps walking and then try running again keeping these ideas in mind.

[giantsteps]

on 7/2/2009 Great article. I just started running and I have the problem of tensing up. I'll try these techniques next time I run.