10 Top Running Tips
It’s that time of year again. People are dusting off their runners and are back pounding the pavement. Whether you’re a hardcore marathon runner or a couch to 5km novice there’s always something you can add to make you a better, safer runner.
Here are 10 great running tips to get you started
1. Challenge accepted
“Everyone is an athlete. But some of us are training, and some of us are not.” —Dr. George Sheehan, runner/writer/philosopher
2. Minutes, not miles
“The biggest mistake that new runners make is that they tend to think in mile increments—1 mile, 2 miles, 3 miles. Beginning runners need to think in minutes, not miles.” —Budd Coates, four-time U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier/coach
3. Get a decent pair of runners
“Spend at least €60. A good pair of running shoes should last you 400 to 500 miles and is one of the most critical purchases you will make.” —John Hanc, author of The Essential Runner
4. Relax
“When running, let your jaw hang loose, don’t bunch up your shoulders close to your ears, and occasionally shake out your hands and arms to stay relaxed.” —Dave Martin, Ph.D., exercise physiologist
5.The Number One Rule Of The Road
“Running against traffic allows the runner to be in command. Anyone who is alert and agile should be able to stay alive.” —Dr. George Sheehan
6. Be a steady Eddie
“Day to day consistency is more important than big mileage. Then you’re never shot the next day.” —John Campbell, former masters running star from New Zealand
7. Keep Hydrated
“Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate! In cold weather and warm. We use water to sweat, lubricate joints, tendons, and ligaments, and to carry blood efficiently to major organs. I work all day at hydrating.” —Dr. Alex Ratelle, former masters running great
8. Listen to your body!
“You must listen to your body. Run through annoyance, but not through pain.” —Dr. George Sheehan
9. Set Goals
“I believe in using races as motivators. It’s hard to keep on an exercise program if you don’t have a significant goal in sight.” —Bob Greene, personal trainer of Oprah Winfrey
10. Slow and steady
“If you put down a good solid foundation, you can then build one room after another and pretty soon you have a house. After your base mileage, add hills, pace work, speedwork, 
and finally race strategy.” —Rod Dixon, New Zealand Olympian, and 1983 New York City Marathon champ
And here’s an extra important one!
11. Don’t force the tissue
“Overly aggressive stretching can actually increase your injury risk.” —Tim Noakes, M.D., author of Lore of Running
Hopefully, this helps you with your running whether it’s a Couch to 5k or you’re training for the big one on Sunday 29th October. If you pick up any knocks or injuries along the way I’m available by appointment and have many years experience with prehab and rehab for runners.
To book an appointment any of our clinic’s therapists please call 01 677 9859 or email info@the-elbowroom.com.