Some people (including myself) don't believe a secret until they have solid proof that it is true. So here's the skinny: I have personally tested some passed down secrets of running, and now I'm aiming to inspire all of you runners (and wanna be runners) to try them out.
1. Have a slightly sugared drink about 10 min before heading out. Try something with natural juice. The sugar will provide you with some well needed carbs to keep your muscles happily working.
2. Focus on your strong points. Imagine you have weak lungs but very strong leg muscles. Focus on the great work your leg muscles are doing. This will distract you from the slight shortage of breath.
3. Set little goals throughout the run. Say you're half way done and you're feeling really tired. Try making goals like "I can make it to that mail box" or " at the end of this song I'll walk a stretch". These little goals will help to push you, help you get stronger, and improve your time.
4. Pacing is your friend. Don't run uber fast at the beginning of your run. Take it a bit slower than you think you should. Then near the end if you have lots of extra energy, sprint it out.
5. Use positive mental self talk. Encourage yourself throughout the run saying things like "you're doing good" or "keep it up".
6. Listen to your fave upbeat music.
And finally...
7. When you're breathing starts getting considerably faster, start breathing in this fashion: two short breaths then a long one. The long breaths will expand your lungs (and clear them of excess CO2) and the short ones will trick you into believing you're getting the air you need as fast as you need.
Enjoy your next run :)
