Everyone has different tips that they use to help them run. Basically, different things work better or worse for different people. I thought I might share with you a collection of the running tips that I have collected over the past few months that have helped me. Some are super basic, and you will say so what. However, one of the things I love so much about running is the importance of basic fundamentals to ensuring success. Sometimes the most basic things can make a world of difference. So without further ado, I present to you my compilation:

1. Keep your head up - This will help you keep your body in line and keep your chest open for proper breathing.
2. Run your own run - Do not try to keep up with someone faster if it doesn’t feel right.
3. Join a clinic or running group - I find nothing more motivating than running with a group of like-minded individuals who push one another to do their best.
4. Vary your tempo - Don’t run fast every day - vary it up with long slow runs, shorter speed runs etc.
5. Hills are actually good - Hills suck while you are doing them, but I have found nothing progresses my running faster than a good bout of hills. Do them (if you have been training for at least 6 weeks).
6. Do hills max once per week - As good as hills are for your running performance, they are brutal on the body. Knees, ankles, shins - the whole deal.
7. Focus on landing on the middle of your foot as opposed to taking big strides and landing on your heal. Your entire leg will thank you.
8. Pick a goal race - Goals are very important to staying motivated. If you know you are running with a specific purpose in mind (i.e. finish a 10K under 1 hour, just finish a half) then you will find it much easier to get up early to get that run in.
9. Rest - Don’t run everyday. Take more days off than you think you need and you will be much better for it. I find this one tough to do, but if I don’t follow it, my body quickly tells me to back off. I like to cross-train on my mountain bike every once in a while to vary things up.
10. Buy the right shoes - Shoes are the most important piece of equipment you can buy. Make sure you get properly fitted, are analyzed in terms of pronation, supination, etc and get a size that fits you perfectly. Be super picky. Don’t buy because a certain pair looks cool. Replace them at the first sign of sole breakdown (or before).

That is it for now. I am sure you all have specific tips that works for you. Let me know. I would love to hear them.

Technorati : Running, fitness, shoes, tips