Ever wanted to run a long-distance
race? Or just wanted to have better stamina and speed while running?
These are questions I have been
seeking answers to when I started running Cross-Country and Track & Field.
From the book by Thomas Wessinghage, “Running: Detailed Advice on Equipment,
Technique, Training, Competitive Running, and Sports Medicine”, it mentions
that “It’s important to judge carefully how fast you run during the different stages
of [a] race” (Wessinghage, 17). The significance of the texts allows you to
understand your speed while you run; in other words when to know to speed up or
slow down. You could slow down because you’re running too fast as you’re trying
to catch your breath. You can tell when to speed up when you are nearing the
end of a run.
Another thing mentioned to use into
running is “Try to run smoothly with your body upright and your shoulders
level. Your arms should swing back and forth, but not as fiercely as when you
are sprinting” (Pg. 17). The point of this technique is to keep a good body
posture when running. Your torso affects the position of your head and
shoulders. Staying in an upright position keeps you moving in an efficient
position as you have optimal breath flow and better strides. Your arms
contribute to your speed, propelling you forward as you move.
While working on that form, I
realized that running uphill has become far easier! While focusing, I moved up
the hill with relative ease and still able to cover a lot of distance at the
same time. Though I have already been following these strategies, I’m eager to
put more focus on these tactics and see how they will help me in my next runs.
Running
can be an activity to do as exercise. Just going out for half an hour can be a
great chance to get fresh air and to keep your body in shape. You don’t have to
be the best but you can just move there and have fun!
Would
you consider using the techniques in your running after hearing this?
Wessinghage, Thomas. Running: Detailed Advice on
Equipment, Technique, Training, Competitive Running, and Sports Medicine.
Barron's Educational Series, 2001.
Hi Aaron! Your blog had a lot of helpful information. This past year, i ran cross country for the first time. At home meets, my coach took a picture of me running up the steep hill and it showed me how bent over i was. She kept telling me to straighten up, but never why. This information will help me in my own running. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi Aaron. I am a sprinter and not a long distance runner but do you think this technique will work for me even though i am not running a long distance? Thanks for the information!
ReplyDeleteHi Makiya. I'm not entirely sure the technique may help you but I'm positive learning to judge your speed will help you! Knowing your speed in sprinting will be a great advantage in judging how fast you'll run during the race. I believe that keeping your back upright and swinging your arms will play a part in helping with your sprints. Try seeing what works best for you. I hope you do well in your sprints!
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