The main benefit of creatine for runners is in enhancing recovery, not performance in long-distance running, says Laura Norris, running coach with a master’s degree in applied exercise science. As Norris explains, “The creatine-phosphate system is not used in middle or long-distance running, as these events rely more on glycolysis and oxidative metabolism.” Read on … Read more
Vo2 max is a number that represents your body’s ability to consume oxygen while running fast. The higher the number, the more oxygen your body takes in, and the more energy your body can produce. You can raise your VO2 max score by running more, running more intensely, and running races, among other ways. Learn … Read more
Hill training makes runners stronger and faster. It builds both muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance. Here are the best hill workouts for runners. (Reviewed by exercise physiologist Todd Buckingham) — As the famed running coach David Roche, author of The Happy Runner, likes to say: “Hills pay the bills!” Running hills act as a two-fer … Read more
A running plateau is when your running performance isn’t improving despite running regularly. Reasons for a running plateau are often rooted in your training, lifestyle, or overall health. I share 8 training strategies to bust through a running plateau. The other day, a new athlete came to me frustrated by a running plateau. She said … Read more
Having to poop while running is a common problem among runners. The cause is usually physiological, nutritional, or mechanical. I speak with experts to help runners identify the cause of their runner’s trots so they can prevent having to go during their run. Common preventative measures involve emptying prior to a run, allowing enough time … Read more
An easy running pace is a pace in which you feel in control, comfortable, and can hold a conversation. For most trained recreational runners, about 80 percent of your weekly training volume should be at an easy effort. This allows you to build your training volume, execute hard workouts, spur physiological adaptations that boost running … Read more