Top Training Tips

Top tip 1

Build a routine

Having a routine is a great way to keep your training on track. If it helps, jot down your plans on a notepad or add the different parts of your training plan to your calendar.

You can choose to include as much or as little detail as you need when you’re planning, but you could note down things like sleep, food, training, stretching and exercising. This will help you to manage your time, and going into the week knowing what you’ll be doing is a great way to keep you motivated and help manage your time.

Sticking to a routine has physical benefits too – your body likes to work hard and will adapt to become fitter.

Top tip 2

Time or miles?

It’s a long disputed argument about whether training to time or miles is the most effective way to increase your runs.

The truth is, it’s up to what suits you and what helps to keep you motivated! If you’re finding you’re stuck in a rut counting miles, mix it up and switch to training to time – it could be the change your routine needs to push you to reach your next target!

There are benefits to both but it’s up to you to choose which works best for you.

Top tip 3

Mix it up

Good runners don’t just run – they mix it up!

Running is a full-body activity – your arms help drive your legs and your core helps to keep you stable whilst you’re running – so it makes sense to focus some of your running training on strength. Find a balance that works for you between strength and cardio training.

Even when you’re doing cardio, there are plenty of other options aside from running. Plus it’s a great way to try some new activities – you might find that aqua fitness, cycling or cross training is the perfect way to mix up your cardio.

Top tip 4

Set targets

Giving yourself something to work towards is a great way to hold yourself accountable and to keep you motivated.

You could set both long and short term targets – for instance, you could try and set a new PB for a 5km run, or you could set yourself the target of taking part in an event in a few months time.

Target will help give your training a sense of purpose – and who doesn’t love ticking something off a list once it’s been achieved?!

Top tip 5

Get social

Running with friends is a great way to add some fun into your routine, and if you want, you can turn it into a real social occasion. Friends can help you to stick to a routine and to push yourself – just remember to stay at your own pace!

If you’re not a fan of running with people, why not take it digital? You could create a WhatsApp group with friends that also enjoy running or track your achievements and share them with friends through Strava.

Top tip 6

Fuel your body

Once you’ve got your routine nailed, thinking about diet and nutrition is the next piece of the puzzle.

You’ll need to eat different things before, during and after your work out to help give you energy and fuel your recovery. If you’re feeling daunted and looking for some inspiration, click here to take a look at our recipe book!

Top tip 7

Rest, rest, rest

Believe it or not, the time spent not running is equally as valuable as the time you spend clocking up the miles.

To ensure you can give your training sessions 110%, you’ll need to be well rested and once you’ve finished your training resting will help your body to recover quicker!

Top tip 8

Prepare to be adaptable

Keeping an open mind during your training is one of the best things you can do.

It’ll take time for you to find a training plan or routine that works for you – and that’s ok! You might realise that running longer distances just once a week does more for you than running 3/4 times a week.

It might be that you need to eat your pre-workout meal 2 hours before you train and you might need to adapt how you refuel during a workout. Each and every runner is on a different journey trying to achieve different roles, so everyone’s routine will vary. If you’re not enjoying a part of your routine, lose it.