Running isn’t for everyone. It’s hard work, and whether you know it or not, there is a lot of technique to it. There are some practices that you should apply to your workout, no matter what your skill level is. When running on trails, paths, a track or roads, safety is always the first thing to remember. So follow these guidelines and running will become a breeze.
Don’t take up the whole road. If you’re running with a group, try not to run side by side with others if the road isn’t wide enough. Other runners or cars may need room to pass you. Don’t force other runners, pedestrians or cyclists off the path. When running with a group in a very busy area or a narrow path, run is a single file line. Be very careful merging too. You should be staying to the right unless you are passing. It’s also smart to look behind you every once and awhile to look for others who may be passing you soon.
If you’re running on a track at a local school or gym, make sure you are following the posted rules for the track. Make sure you are running in the right direction and using the correct lanes. Typically outer lanes are for slower walkers or runners. If there are no posted rules, ask other runners on the track or follow their lead if you don’t know what to do.
Always look both ways before entering or exiting a path, when you are approaching intersections and at drinking fountains. Even if you’re running on a one-way street there could be runners, walkers or cyclists coming from the other direction.
If you need to stop for any reason, whether it’s to tie your shoe or stretch out your leg cramps, always move to the side of the road or path first. Again, make sure you are looking both ways before moving over to the side so you’re not cutting someone off.
If you are someone who switches between running and walking, when you’re getting ready to slow down to a walk or step to the side of the road, signal that you will be making a change in your pace. Many times runners behind you will accidentally run into the back of you, or become annoyed that they have to maneuver around you.
Say hello! It’s running, not a foreign affairs meeting. A simple smile between runners or the raise of a hand to say hi can help yourself and other runners stay motivated to keep running. Saying hello also offers a little comradery between runners, as though you’re apart of an exclusive club. Don’t limit yourself to runners. Say hello to everyone!
For new runners and seasoned runners alike, it is very helpful to set goals. Giving workouts a purpose, whether it’s to lose weight, finish your run faster everyday, or even to run in your first race, setting goals can keep you motivated and not mindlessly running. Goals keep you consistent too.
Warren Academy, powered by DREAM, has been helping student-athletes increase their performance, mentally and physically since 2008. With over 10 years of service, Warren Academy has helped guide hundreds of athletes to college. Interested in learning more about Warren Academy’s youth sports training Omaha programs? Contact us today!
