"The
50 Best Running Tips Ever"
Whether
you're a trembly-kneed beginner or a foot-sore veteran, it's never too late
to learn more about the world's oldest form of fitness.
Fast Thinking
Be Realistic
Have achievable goals. Write them down and reassess them on a regular
basis. Make them positive, so instead of saying, 'I will not get overtaken
in the last mile,' say 'I will hold my position.'
See The Big Picture
'Make every
run feel significant by looking at it as a small goal that forms part of the
bigger goal,' says sports psychologist Andy Barton.
Visualise Success
Use visualisation
techniques to improve results and combat nerves. 'People can put on muscle
by using their imagination. When you mentally rehearse something micro muscles
actually move. Make sure you're relaxed. Visualise doing well so you can tap
into your feelings,' says Barton.
Disassociate Yourself
Use disassociation as a
post-mortem tool. Want to see where you may have gone wrong? Look at yourself
from outside your body and see what you were doing as if you were a coach.
Start Pumping
Imagine
oil is going through your body to make your limbs feel loose, or that your
legs are pistons. It might sound crazy but it works.
Get In Tune
Use music
to get in the right mental state - but don't always go for the Rocky theme
tune. Classical music may be more effective at relaxing you, and you run better
when you're in a relaxed state.
Stay In The Moment
'For a
marathon, think in terms of the first mile, then the second mile. The more
you stay in the moment the more effective you are,' says Barton.
Tarquin Cooper
