The Three Steps of Distance Running

Photo by Fitsum Admasu on Unsplash

When you hear conversations about distance running, most people talk about training. Preparation for a longer race is an important element, but it is only one piece in the puzzle of how to perform well in distance running. There are three steps that every runner should consider to be a good distance runner. The steps are preparation, performance, and recovery. All three are equally important. Here are the basics for each step.

Preparation. I remember when I was younger, saying I only wanted to run. I didn’t want to do the stretching, strength training, and cross-training that are often recommended. I changed my mind after an injury that demanded I go to physical therapy for four weeks. The trainer emphasized to me the importance of stretching for flexibility, strength training to build all my muscles, and cross-training to work in different muscle groups. I also needed a rest day instead of running hard every day. She convinced me that I needed a varied program to protect my body, and she was right.

The great thing about preparation is that you can make it unique to you if you incorporate the different elements. You can choose the cross-training you enjoy the most. I need to strengthen my knees, so I do the stair climbing machine. You can climb any set of stairs without going to the gym. I do a strength training routine using weights, but there are many…