Want to be the next Usain Bolt? Yeah, same. Runners like him make it look easy as if they aren't even trying, but there's a lot more to it than what meets the eye. If you're looking to pick up your pace and perfect your running we've got the secrets for you. Read below and take in each tip on how to run faster.
Tips to Run Faster
It's fair to say that there are people in this world that are born to run, Bolt being one of them. However, even he has to put in a lot of work in order to be as fast as he is. These are some tips to help you build your endurance, speed, and pace for when you want to fly by the runner next to you on the track.
- Perfect Your Form: This is a major key to running. Whether you're running for speed or distance your form will make or break your time or distance. For sprinting you'll want to lean your torso forward, but aligned with your hips, be sure not to slouch over them. Your chin should tilt up to lift your head forward, this helps to push you forward rather than staring at the ground. Strike the ground with your mid-foot landing under your hip and don't raise your knees any higher than your hips. Your arms should have a balanced swing of forward to back, not side to side. A key tip is to lightly touch your thumb to your pointer finger with your fingers relaxed, this will reduce any tension you hold in your hands if you normally run with fists.
- Run Fartleks: This training is a great balance of sprinting and jogging. This interval training is meant to help you build speed and endurance.
- Stretch Daily: Stretching is essential to help prevent injury. Most runners have hip and knee injuries from slamming their legs into a tough surface. Stretching will also help increase flexibility which will result in a longer stride, helping you sprint further and faster.
- Jump Rope: Fast feet! Need I say more?
- Wear Lighter Shoes: This will help reduce weight which gives your legs more energy for faster feet.
- Work Your Core: Having strong core muscles helps runners push more force out on the track. Mountain climbers are great to build ab muscles but also to help position your body in the position for sprinting.
- Get Enough Sleep: Well-rested athletes have better reaction times to run in faster times.
The true testament to getting faster is to just focus and train. The more time you put into each tip the better and faster you'll be. It won't happen overnight so be patient and stay consistent, you will be faster if you don't give up!
