Increase Your Speed to Increase Your Running Form

If you’re ready to improve your ability to run and the times of your finishes, you might want to focus on the way you train. While distance running is important for making sure you have the endurance to finish those 10Ks and marathons, you’ll need to take a slightly different approach to shave seconds off your end times.

When you’re ready to boost your speed, you’ll want to start adding shorter, faster runs into the mix. While these runs might not necessarily help you prove you can go the distance, running shorter lengths at higher speeds can help you improve your overall form. It is simply easier to make certain you’re using proper form when you’re focusing on a faster distance. Plus, by increasing the speed and shortening the distance, you’ll build up the ability to spot errors in form you might be making that you don’t know about.

Why does form matter so much?

Holding the right form throughout a run is vital for a few reasons. They include:

1. Ability to finish faster – When seconds count, proper form can be imperative. When form isn’t held properly, it can take you longer to cover a distance. You risk slowing yourself down as your body attempts to propel itself forward. Essentially, run without proper form and you’ll just get in your own way!
2. Form helps you avoid injuries – Proper form is simply critical for helping with injury avoidance. The body is meant to work in a certain way. When form isn’t held, this isn’t happening and injuries can result.

Other Tips for Increasing Speed

Form isn’t the only thing you need to consider when you’re working to cut seconds off a finish. Here are a few others:

1. The manner in which you run. If you go out of the gate at your highest speed possible, chances are you’re failing to pace yourself. Take a tip from the Kenyans and break your course into three parts. Run the first leg a little slower than your normal speed. Pick up the pace in the second leg to a normal running speed. Go out all out in the third and final leg.
2. Your hydration levels – It is imperative to maintain proper hydration during training and before a race. If you’re not getting at least 1.5 liters of water a day, chances are your muscles are going to fight back. Drink to your health and your running time.
3. Your shoes – Be certain you are wearing proper running shoes that are designed to handle the impacts and help you avoid injury.

For other advice on improving your finish times, talk with the pros at Fit For You Health Club. We can help you with everything from form and pacing to selecting the proper equipment so you can go the distance.