My Topic is: What are you worst running habits? (It was 2024 TT for today. LOL)

I could go on and  on…

But here are a few that I do frequently:

• Skipping Warm Ups.

I feel rushed and need to get the run done but I do know that I shouldn’t and that these exercises (dynamic ones) help my body prepare for the run and can reduce the risk of injury by warming up the muscles that I’ll use.

• Neglecting Cool Downs.

Again, it’s a time crunch and friends are often waiting at brunch. But yes, I know that I shouldn’t and that the cool-down helps my body adjust after the session, reduces heart rate, and stretching my muscles could aid recovery over the next few days.

• Ignoring Drills and Speed Workouts.

Yup, I’m guilty of only doing easy runs. Why? They are easy.  I don’t have to think. I just run. I do know that that speed drills are necessary if I want to improve my pace. Hill Repeats?  These could help me not to walk up every hill. LOL.

• Taking Too Many Walk Breaks.

I’m a fan of run/walk intervals especially for long runs.  I also enjoy running with friends. As a result, my walk breaks may be too long or too often. I’m not getting injured (and that’s important) but in a race, I know that it’s hard to run longer when I am used to walking frequently (like every 90 sec.)

• Practicing Inadequate Hydration.

I hate to carry water. I’m ok in the cold weather but I do know that it’s important to drink water when it’s warmer and hydration is important as it contributes to performance.  At least in races, I stop at every water stop.

• Listening to Negative Self Talk.

I’m sure that I’m not alone here and it’s hard to avoid.

“Why is this run so hard?”
“Why are my paces so slow?”
“Should I even be racing?”

I need to remember that it’s privilege to be ABLE to run and that failure is better than not trying.

• Not Following a Plan.

Having completed 70 half marathons and 3 full marathons, I feel confident that I can finish the race. I do download a plan but due to work and weather, I usually do not follow the weekday recommended distances. I do recognize that following a plan could provide me with a more successful racing experience.

• Avoiding Strength Training.

Strength training is not as exciting as running and again because of time, I do not do it (until recently when I joined a gym and use the machines a few rimes a week.) I do know that cross or strength-related drill/activities play a significant role in a training plan and can positively impact training and prevent injuries.

• Starting Out Too Fast in a Race.

Who doesn’t do this? I feel strong.  I forget that I now have a slower pace.  What happens? I have positive splits and I feel like dying by the last mile.

Happy Running! Can you identify with any of the above?  Can you add any? Please share.

 

 

 

 

 

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Since today is Tuesday, I’m linking up with Zenaida (The Running Teacher) and Jenn (Runs with Pugs).

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and tomorrow:

I’m also linking up with: co-hosts Coach Debbie Runs, Confessions of a Mother Runner, Mile by Mile, and Runs with Pugs