How to run fast

How to run fast - main image

Using running pace training, running speed work, speed play sessions and speed workouts to run faster

So what, you can run faster?

What use does increasing speed have, really?

As it turns out, running faster isn’t just good for your PB and time beating, it’s also great for feeling good about smashing targets and improving all round. While speed training of course, feels better after it’s done (high demand – greater overcoming sensation), you’ll be surprised when you incorporate speed workouts into your normal routines…

… the physical benefits are incredible.

If you’re like me and you’re a little tired of running at a slower pace, tired of a plateaued running performance and just want to learn new ways of running, then read on to learn more.

From a more rigorous training schedule to interval training, a workout routine with weights to tempo runs throughout the week, you can take on a lot to improve speed… let’s have a look at a few now.

Quick pace try outs

It’s a pretty simple solution, but trying out a quicker pace to fully assess your measure should be your first point of call. If you don’t know how quick you can run, or for how long, then how can you adjust your training schedules?

It’s important to look out for – speed over time (you can measure this with many an app), the point at which fatigue sets in, stamina drains, pace slows and, of course, how far you run before needing to stop entirely.

Stride counting

Again taking a numerical and measured approach to assessing speed and running faster, counting your strides is an obvious go-to. Verywell Fit puts it, ”Counting your strides can help increase your stride turnover, which is the number of steps you take every minute you run. Doing so will help you run faster.”

Simple.

You could use stride counting to inform a great speed workout by using it as a stage-by-stage development process. You can also incorporate this method with proper running form assessments to weigh up how form is affecting your stride count and then how your stride count should clock in over a certain amount of training.

Anaerobic threshold

Similar to Vo2 max in the sense of maximum beneficial fuel input, Your anaerobic threshold entails the point at which your body switches to anaerobic metabolism from aerobic metabolism. Anaerobic metabolism is far less performance-maintaining than aerobic, so increasing both your aerobic and anaerobic threshold or capacities will help you burn fuel for longer in both states.

Conclusion

From the right training plan to the best tempo pace going, running faster can be achieved via different routes. A training programme is, of course, great, but it should be informed by a thorough pre-assessment. You want to become the most efficient runner you know, so do the research, asses your ability and train from there.

FAQs

Why should you listen to your body?

Be mindful of arrogance and oversight – there’s nothing worse than ignoring signs from your body and ending up with injuries or weakened performance and growth. You need to look for signs like fatigue, muscle ache, weakness, shortness of breath… anything about your body which could be useful to your growth should be noted.

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