Help me out with your running secrets?

Question

Hey guys.

Im a rower, and recently cross training has become a very large part of my training schedule.

My issue is that I hate running. I am 6ft 1in and I feel so clumsy. I get sore calves and ive never been fast at running or had much running stamina no matter how fit I am in other diciplines.

I really need to learn to run so that I can do the other cross training that our coach likes like triathlon. I am a great swimmer, ok cyclist and then it comes to the run and I look like a new born giraffe!

Help me out and let me know your secrets to building up and maintaining a high level of running training and skill.

thanks guys

Answer 1

ahahaha.

i can see what you're saying..

just practice. seriously... i had to 'water run' this summer, which was completely unfamiliar for me... and the first week i felt like a spaz.. but slowly you get the hang of it.

just run. seriosuly...... its not like anyone will be watching you in particular. and even if they do, whatever. at least you're running.

it's  agreat sport too. so once you get the hang of it, things will go up hill from there i promise. make sure you stretch and drink a lot, because the muscle cramps come from lack of oxygen.

goodluck!

Answer 2

First, i'd suggest stretching.  It's often overlooked, and seen as unimportant, but it is as important as anything else with your runs.  It prevents injury, and helps loosen you up so you can run well in the first place.

Next, I'd suggest a good pair of shoes.  It may seem like a waste, seeing as running is only a cross-training exercise for you, but shoes do make a difference.  A good pair of running shoes will support and cushion your feet, making the run more comfortable and lessen your chance of injury.

The biggest secret to breaking through in terms of speed is to work at it.  A lot of people think running is solely natural talent.  The fact of the matter is, it isn't.  Running is based on training as much as anything and everything else.  If you train, you'll do well.

Different workouts help this though.  for example, running intervals (specific distances at a certain pace with a certain amount of rest) can help with speed, while a long run can help with endurance, and a hill workout can help with power and explosiveness.  However, you need a certain amount of base training (just running) to be ready to do those...

Hope it helps!  Feel free to contact me for any reason

~abab