What does it take to become a “real” runner?
There is no such thing as a real runner. If you run, you're a runner.
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I've been working with a lot of new runners lately (hello middle school cross country), and if I had any advice for them - of which I have plenty - this is what I would stress to them as often as I possibly could.
And listen, you might be a veteran runner, but this post still has tidbits you probably forgot about. So keep reading. And share it too.
You are a runner if...
You are willing to listen [to your coach, to your body]
A coach should/is responsible for making sure you run within your capabilities and help you avoid injury. Listen to them.
Your body has some pretty loud warning signs if you are willing to listen to them and take action when it sounds the alarm.
You want running shoes from a running-specialty store. They are going to put you in the right kind of shoe for your foot's needs. Then, you're more likely to stay healthy.
You want to get better and you've begun to set running-related goals. Whether it's time-related goals, mileage goals, or how-you-feel goals, it's important to set goals so you have something to attack.
Photo by Jungwoo Hong on Unsplash You carry a water bottle everywhere you go and you stay hydrated. Hydration is part of the equation, as is fueling your body appropriately. Both of these will help you perform at your best.
Sleep is everything. I can't say it loud enough. Sleep is the magic pill you're looking for if you want to get better. In a running rut? Sleep more. Peaking for your big race? Sleep more. Run down and getting injured? Sleep more.
You take your active recovery seriously. Whether your mileage is high enough that you run every day or you mix in walks and cross training to supplement your training, recovery days mean recovery effort. You allow your body to recover from your hard day so you can go hard again.
New or not, these are going to help you become a better runner. And I know, if you're reading this, you want to become [better, faster, stronger, less-injured]. So take some of my advice and make it work for your needs.
At the end of the day, if we are all healthy and happy, we're all winning.
New Blog Alert:
I’m working on a post about training for middle schoolers. Stay on the lookout for that on my blog: TrainwithMarc.com/blog
Have questions? Reply to the email and I’ll get back to you.
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Friday’s Action Plan
There isn’t a specific checklist that makes you a runner versus not a runner. Try working with an experienced coach to see what progress you can make under their watch.
What Has My Attention:
Essentials For Runners to Get Started
Boost Your Running Endurance With These 20 Tips
Quote of the Week:
Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.
Thanks for reading until the end. You can certainly get a hold of me in any number of ways, but if you have a comment about this post, click below.
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