Want to Run Faster?

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Are you looking to improve your running speed? Here's some tips and tricks to help!



1.) Watch your Form: The key to running well at any speed is proper running form. Proper running form means keeping your upper body tall and relaxed, keeping your arms swinging forward and back at a low 90 degree angle (rather than swinging out to the side), and striking the ground with your mid-foot landing underneath your hip.

2.) Count Your Steps: Familiarize yourself with your stride turnover which is the rate of steps your take while running regardless of pace. The fastest most efficient runners have a cadence of around 180 steps per minute and keep their feet close to the ground taking speedy short steps. Find your magic number by running for one minute and counting the number of times your right foot hits the ground. Multiply that by 2.

3.) Try Interval Training: Short bursts of high intensity running can help improve your speed significantly. It also burns major calories in much less time!

4.) Stretch Daily: Getting even a few stretches in, especially those that target hip flexors can help keep injuries at bay and also improve your running form through increased flexibility.

5.) Try a Lighter Shoe: A lighter shoe can help take away some weight while you're racing. You don't need to go the barefoot running route. Shoes are getting lighter and lighter these days so make sure to pick one that works best for you.

6.) Work Your Core: A strong core = faster running. You don't have to do core work every day to get the benefits. Even 15 minutes 3 times a week is helpful!

7.) Head for the Hills: Hill repeats build strong muscles and improve speed.

8.) Look Ahead: Focusing on your feet, or looking behind you in a race to see the competition is a waste of energy. Instead, focus in front of you and keep your eye on the finish line.

9.) Get Enough Sleep: To run well, you must recover properly! Make sure you're taking care of yourself and getting enough sleep!

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