Whether you hit the beach this summer or hid in the AC, it’s time to switch gears, lace up those sneakers, and get ready for marathon season! Follow these 5 simple tips to help you better prepare for your training this fall:

Find Other Crazy Running Friends

Training for anything can be hard when you do it alone. But having friends to run with who are as crazy as you makes those days where you just don’t want to move, that much more bearable. Not to mention, it significantly improves your performance, it’s more fun and it holds you accountable. Ask your friends, search for local running clubs or create your own!

Invest in the Proper Gear

Although I could literally write a novel about this, I’ll start by mentioning that you need sneakers – minor detail, but we may want to cover it. If you’re serious about running, it’s not worth skimping on good sneakers. You don’t necessarily need the most blinged-out, expensive shoe either, but you do need to ask the right questions when purchasing a quality running sneaker: Are you running in the woods or on the road? Are you training for a 5K, a sprint triathlon, or a marathon? Do you have any injuries or deficiencies? What’s your budget? These are all important questions to ask yourself before you make the purchase. I would research a reputable running store in your area where they can answer your questions and concerns in detail. Trust me, it’ll save you money and stress in the long-run (heh, get it, long run?).

Get a Coach

Although this may seem intimidating to most, there are running coaches out there who actually love what they do! Often times a running coach will create an online program for you to follow, they’ll help you hone in on your goals and perhaps even meet with you on occasion to time a workout, show you proper running techniques and mobility exercises – hint: all good coaches should address mobility and running technique! Most coaches I know charge anywhere from $40-$100/month. If they charge you more, they better have the experience, the success and/or actually be Shalane Flanagan (Olympian; American Record Holder). If that’s too much of an investment, try cutting back on eating out for a month. Trust me, that month could change your running forever!

Don’t Skip Heavy Lift Days

Seriously. Don’t do it. Many runners think lifting is not necessary and this is so far from the truth it’s not even funny. Lifting prepares you for the impact you receive while running. Think about it: Such strenuous impact, repeated numerous times, requires strong muscular and skeletal structures. Lifting not only strengthens your body to receive the constant force and onslaught of your bodyweight pounding any and all surfaces, but it also helps prevent numerous injuries. My point: You will become a better and faster finisher and run longer, happier days if you lift.

Show Up

The most important part to this equation is YOU! It doesn’t matter how fast or slow you go, or whether you actually have running experience or not; what matters is that you show up!

By implementing these 5 tips, you’re guaranteed a more pleasant running experience this fall. Happy running my friends!

If you have any questions please contact Coach Nast at nast@crossfitsoar.com.