running on a treadmill. Windy and rainy days are guaranteed, and there will be plenty of hills, concrete, and uneven surfaces to tackle. Supplementing your runs with cross-training activities such as cycling, swimming, and strength training can get you stronger and more agile, and lower the risk of an overuse injury that can accompany the repetitive nature of running.
Maintaining flexibility is essential. For runners, both static and dynamic stretching is beneficial. Static stretching is where the end point of the stretch is held, allowing the muscle to relax and lengthen. Dynamic stretching, which mimics the movement of the activity, helps improve functional range of motion. And don’t underestimate the power of a yoga practice. Yoga encourages flexibility, strengthens the core, and can improve your overall well-being.
5. Eat Well & Drink Better
What you fuel your body with is as equally important as a well-designed training schedule. When you take on an endurance event like running, your diet needs should be adjusted to meet the physical demands.
With respect to runners, a healthy diet will be higher in carbohydrates, and sufficient in fats and protein. Carbohydrates are