Run With Purpose

For today’s run, how far are you going, how fast, and with whom? If you’re following a structured training plan, you will know the answers. But plenty of runners make those decisions as they head out the door based on the weather, time constraints, and how they feel.

If your goal is to improve, before lacing up your running shoes, ask yourself: What is the purpose of this workout?

If you can’t answer that question, why bother doing the run. If you want to get fitter and faster, having a goal for the day – and sticking to it – will develop the physiological systems that make you stronger. Without it, you risk doing too much, too little, or just enough to stay in a workout rut.

You run a specific pace because you’re trying to achieve a specific physiological adaptation. You need to respect the purpose of the workout.

Here’s how to reap the rewards of whatever is on your agenda.

You’re running today to… Build endurance

Run long and slow. These runs force your heart and lungs to adapt to working overtime, which beefs up your cardio-vascular system. The prolonged impact also strengthens muscles, joints and connective tissue.

The Workout

Once a week, run one and a half to three times longer than you typically run. Every three weeks, increase the distance by three kilometres.

Are you running to get faster, mimic your race, shed stress or socialise? Click next to read how to reap the rewards!