Lockdown Running tips

Lockdown Running Tips

1.    Map out a few of your favourite routes within your 5k. I like to map out different loops like 5k, 10k’s which I know I have the option to add on a or cut short a few kms depending on how I am feeling. Write them down or save them in your phone. That takes the thinking out of where to go if you are tight for time! Run keeper or Map my run can be good for this or even looking at previous routes you have done for inspiration!

2.    Have a decent playlist, podcast or audio book at the ready. I find this automatically motivates me to run a little faster or farther.

3.    Put your planned runs in your diary or google calendar and tell your husband, housemate, kids or whoever needs to know your whereabouts in advance. This will ensure accountability and also remind you of your plan.

4.    Make sure you have good supportive runners and do not drastically change your footwear. E.g. if you usually run in a flatter runner, do not switch to one with a large heel support such as a Hoka runner.

5.    Remember you still need to keep up with strengthening and mobility exercises to prevent injury. Even though gyms may be closed there are plenty of exercises that can be done at home.

6.    To avoid overload injuries make sure you gradually increase your mileage. Remember cumulative load counts here. E.g. if you usually run 5km twice a week and decide you want to increase this to 5 times a week next week, you are just as susceptible to a running-related injury if you decided to do a 15km run that week. This is because every km counts.

7.    Use a smart watch or app to track your progress and sync up with friends like Strava. This is a great way to keep a bit of socially distant competitiveness going!

8.    Remember you will never regret getting out for a run or walk, it is one of the best things we can do for our physical and mental health!

**Note these are things that I have found useful over the last few months and are by no means going to suit everyone. If you can take one tip from this I would count that as a win 