Running Question?

Question

I go running fairly often for overall fitness yet recently it has become stale and I've hit a sort of 'plateau', u could call it. How can i mix up my running sessions so I find it more enjoyable and more beneficial to my body? I'm talking about different techniques or possibly different terrain?

Thanks alot

Answer 1

Try running hills, if possible.

If you are used to running flat, this will change things dramatically.

Answer 2

Everyone goes through small plateaus.  Depending on how long you have been in this it will probably pass and you will see incredible improvements.  But it you are wanting to hurry this up you can change up your running.  It can be as simple as getting more rest, or running a different route.  I don't know what you normally run but you could try once a week a few speed drills on the track.  Get your blood going pick up the pace.  Or if you are wanting more endurance try to make a weekly long run.  Increase the distance by about 10%.  Sometimes the pleateu is all mental and you just need a little change.

Good Luck

http://eninjatraining.blogspot.com/

Answer 3

Most runners who are getting better hit a plateasu for a little while and then all of a sudden, if you keep at it and don't quit, they start noticing that they are getting better and better. I agree with everyone else that you should try to make your runs fun, that is why you run anyways, because you enjoy it.

When I start to get bored on my runs I make sure no cars are coming and then run in between the yellow lines in the middle of the road or jump off rocks. It gets really entertaining for me and the people who happen to be watching. :)

Answer 4

Well, I bet you really haven't plateaued yet.  That takes a tremendous amount of time and practice.

Try running longer distances.  Do 10 miles one day and see how it feels.  Challenge yourself to run different routes and time yourself for speed.

Try running farlek.  It's where you sprint, jog, run, and change up the pace and speed every 30 seconds to a minute.  That'll be different for you.