Crossing the finish line at every running level
| 2 min read
We all aren’t record setting marathoners, who can finish 26.2 at a five-minute-mile pace, but we can still work towards completing a race this year. Whether you’ve completed a few 10k’s in the past year or just enjoy the occasional jog along Belle Isle for a workout, there is an event with your name on it. First things first, no matter your experience, every runner should know these three tips before lacing up their sneaks:
- Form is essential. Keep your upper body relaxed and your shoulders low and loose.
- Shin splits are no joke. Simple stretches are key to working out sore muscles. After your run, use a foam roller to reduce inflammation and tension in your shins, calves and thighs.
- Speed it up. To improve your time, mix up your run with a few minutes at your goal pace followed by one minute at an easier one.
Ready for a race? We’ve compiled some great races across Michigan and the perfect training plan to get you across the finish line – no matter your level.
Just getting started
Race: Opt for a neighborhood 5k or novelty run such as Run or Dye, or the Pot O’ Gold Run/Walk. Not only are they fun, they’re non-competitive and full of beginners like yourself, so you won’t feel intimidated
Training Plan: Fitness Magazine’s 6-week program takes you from couch to 5k with ease.
Race: Opt for a neighborhood 5k or novelty run such as Run or Dye, or the Pot O’ Gold Run/Walk. Not only are they fun, they’re non-competitive and full of beginners like yourself, so you won’t feel intimidated
Training Plan: Fitness Magazine’s 6-week program takes you from couch to 5k with ease.
Finished a few 5ks
Race: Work toward a 15k or half marathon, which will offer a challenge for anyone trying to push themselves beyond the traditional three miles.
Training Plan: Hal Higdon is the king of training plans for runners. His 15k program works for all types of athletes and is easily adaptable to your schedule.
Race: Work toward a 15k or half marathon, which will offer a challenge for anyone trying to push themselves beyond the traditional three miles.
Training Plan: Hal Higdon is the king of training plans for runners. His 15k program works for all types of athletes and is easily adaptable to your schedule.
Time for the big leagues
Race: Sign-ups for the Detroit Free Press Marathon have opened, so it’s the perfect opportunity to work up the courage to register for an unforgettable 26.2-mile experience.
Training Plan: First, we highly recommend joining a running group to get personalized training and be held accountable for running throughout the week. Beyond that, Runner’s World Magazine is the perfect spot for common questions and the very best training programs tailored for your experience.
Race: Sign-ups for the Detroit Free Press Marathon have opened, so it’s the perfect opportunity to work up the courage to register for an unforgettable 26.2-mile experience.
Training Plan: First, we highly recommend joining a running group to get personalized training and be held accountable for running throughout the week. Beyond that, Runner’s World Magazine is the perfect spot for common questions and the very best training programs tailored for your experience.
Photo credit: I Run Flint
