Sidestep the setbacks Struggling to stay in the running game? Here’s how to navigate the hurdles that are holding you back The setback: You’re really out of shape The fix: Pump up the music You told us… sometimes. “Run without music s on your gait, It allows you to focu ct and it will breathing and impa nique.” help refine your tech ia Thanks, Elysha (v Facebook) g n i n n Ru special o t y d Rea ? n ru ng gear ti a v ti o m , s p ti g expert trainin h it W just what ! e is b e l il id w u g u o g y in , s n u n t Trus r awesome ru u o , s ie nfidence g o c te a d n tr s a r y e a d w o e p c and ra vements with a p e th d n u o p you need to 48 womensfitnessmagazine.com.au womensfitnessaustralia @womensfitnessmag @womensfitnessau Dreading hitting the track after a long break from your sneakers? Let Beyoncé, Katy Perry and Rihanna give you a hand. Listening to your favourite tunes while you run can reduce feelings of fatigue, increase psychological arousal and improve your coordination, ensuring you perform better and go for longer. Then, when you’re ready to stop, the right track can trigger a physiological relaxation response, chilling you out. Put together a playlist of tunes (check out page 32 for inspo!) or cue up some of the ready-made options available on music apps like Spotify. The setback: Your strength workouts are slipping The fix: Mix it up Sure, running is a great cardio workout, but it’s never a good idea to single out one discipline and stick to that alone. If you don’t feel like jogging, don’t – keep things interesting and keep your body guessing by swapping out at least one of your weekly pavement-pounding sessions for a gym workout. It’s a myth that weight training will slow runners down – a little gym time can really power up your runs, whatever the distance. A stronger core will help you to maintain good posture, which is key for running efficiency, and increasing your leg strength will improve the power of your push-off, reducing the amount of effort you put into each stride. Plus, building strength will help to reduce the risk of injury that’s often associated with the repetitive running motion. The setback: You’re getting bored on your runs The fix: Double up Don’t like the solitary nature of jogging? Take a friend. Research shows training with a buddy equals more consistent workouts and better performance. But this isn’t just womensfitnessmagazine.com.au womensfitnessaustralia @womensfitnessmag advice for newbies, it’s a tactic used by elite athletes, too – they often train in pairs or groups. Commitment to your mate, a pat on the back when you put in that extra bit of effort, an understanding voice to push you on – not to mention someone to compete against – will help to keep you going. If you can’t convince a friend to hit the trail with you, join a running club for a constant supply of buddies. The setback: You’re not seeing any results The fix: Keep a diary Research published in the Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology found that keeping a diary of your training runs can help you stick to a programme. People who record their runs tend to exercise more frequently and are more likely to see results. And make sure you mark an X on the days when you miss a session – it’s a simple visual trick that’s been shown to help keep runners on course. Buy a separate diary (or use the diary on your smartphone) to record your runs. Include your vital stats such as the distance you covered, your time, incline, pace and your heart rate. The setback: You just can’t get motivated to move The fix: Picture it You know the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words”? It holds especially true here. Raid your albums for photos and search for mementos that will give you the kick up the backside you need when your motivation is missing. A photo of you crossing the line in a previous race stuck on the fridge door, or a medal you won at a track meeting hanging on your bedroom mirror may be all the inspiration you need. Be creative and explore a few options, starting with a photo in your gym bag, on your desk at work or even just a spare pair of trainers in the back of the car, so you see them every single time you open the boot. It’ll keep your goal front and centre. ❯ @womensfitnessau 49 What type of runner are you? Runni ng specia l Get warmed up! Ditch your warm-up crimes and stretch your way to a perfect run 1 2 Are you hot to trot or battling permanent cold feet? Take our quiz to discover your striding spirit Complete this sentence: “I go running because…” A “I love the feeling of freedom, and the endorphin rush I get from it afterwards”.... B “I know it’s good for me”.......................... C “It hurts… Actually, why do I do this?”….. What’s your most essential piece of kit? A State-of-the-art joggers ......................... B iPod; purely for motivation .................... C iPod; purely to drown out the sound of you hyperventilating ................................... Which animal most reflects your running style? A Gazelle. Your stride is graceful and you don’t even look like you’re trying ............... B Cat. Fast in short bursts, then you need to nap for the rest of the day ...................... C Galapagos tortoise. Pluto circles the sun faster than you lap ovals ............................. Which famous movie quote sums up your morning jogs? A “I feel the need – the need for speed”.... B “Run, Forrest, Run!”................................. C “Houston, we have a problem”............... What’s an achievable 10km time for you? A Sub-60 minutes, every time ................... B Between one and two hours .......…......... C Happy to just get to 10km without needing the St John Ambulance ............... As: You take your sport seriously, and so you sho uld – you’re obviously a natural. Consi der joining a local running club. The competitive spirit will improve your run nin Mostly Bs: You enjoy youg. r sessions once you get sta rted, but you’re not dreaming of Ol ympic glory. Set yourself regula r time and distance goals to maintain motivation. Mostly Cs: You’re not design ed for running, which is totally fine because, frankly, it’s tough love. Remember, there’s no sha me in dropping into a walk – or trying other cardio sports such as cycling or rowing. What type of races are we most likely to find you at? A I don’t get out of bed for less than 20K ... B Fun runs – with emphasis on the fun ..... C Randwick Races. The best kind! ............ What’s your exercise excuse? A Someone amputated my legs ................ B Sometimes life just gets in the way ....... C It’s 6am and the doona’s warm............... You told us… ing, push “If you feel like stopp mething a few yourself towards so e, and keep metres away, like a tre knackered! ” doing it until you’re arina Thanks, Greenerm (via Instagram) The verdict Hip openings (knee bent) Areas stretched: Hips, bottom, thighs Technique: Rotate your leg out so it’s Stand with feet together. pointing to the side. Change Lift your leg up and forward, to the other leg after one set. keeping your knee bent. 1 x 15 reps each side 1 2 Mostly Leg swings Areas stretched: Hips, rear thighs straight, swing your left Technique: Hold onto something leg forward and back with sturdy if necessary for this momentum. Change legs one. Keeping your back after one set. 1 x 30 reps 1 2 Tech stuff to keep you motivated #loves 1. An all-in-one with real-time coaching, heart rate monitor and GPS. Adidas miCoach Smart Run, $500 50 Arm swings 2. At-a-glance info = easier way to achieve your goals! TomTom Runner GPS Watch, $199 womensfitnessmagazine.com.au Areas stretched: Back, stomach, shoulders Technique: Keeping your back straight arm is moving in the and feet together, swing your opposite direction. arms up and down so each 1 x 30 reps ❯ 3. Fun messages to inspire you before and after runs, in super sleek white. Nike+ SportWatch GPS, $199 womensfitnessaustralia @womensfitnessmag @womensfitnessau 51 Runni ng specia l Don’t be afraid of the dark run appy Download these free apps to get you racing out the door For the beginner Those new to the running scene should start with the Bupa Running app. It’s a virtual PT that provides you with a health check, personalised running program and a diary to track your progress. Training after dark doesn’t have to be scary. Stay on the safe side with these tips ✻ Map your route Pick routes you know, as things can look very different in the shadows. “If you train alone, let someone know the route you’re taking,” says Salomon Trail Team runner Emma Clayton. Circuit sessions, such as laps around your local streets, are ideal because they allow you to train in a place you know and trust. Feeling too wiped to complete a circuit? “Don’t be tempted to take a shortcut just because you’re tired,” warns Jo Walker, a personal safety expert from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust. “And try to avoid using the same route every day.” ✻ Visibility is vital Wearing bright clothing makes a lot of sense. Most high-visibility clothing is yellow, but it can be any fluorescent colour – neon pink or orange are ideal “How I became nner” a ru Holly Wainwright In 14 weeks, writer a 21km hero. went from non-runner to gling a job “Sleep-deprived from jug tore my and a baby, I wanted to res nd frie A . fitness and self-esteem that rity cha a – suggested Can Too ile wh al go a te ple trains you to com r nce Ca re Cu for you raise money n tho ara f-m hal t firs my Australia. At the und training session I puffed aro self not to my ce vin con to ing try track, e support Th run right out of the oval! le more litt a from Can Too lifted me y to wa the all each week, from 4km era Op ney Syd the the 21km finish at for 0 00 $2, n tha re mo House. I raised g of new the cause and made a gan little huffer this if , me e liev Be friends. Can Too.” can make 21km... Yes, you info. for u Head to cantoo.org.a 52 and look bang on-trend. High-tech gear also often includes reflective panels, allowing light from vehicles to bounce off the material and glow brightly in the dark. Can’t afford to splash out on fancy new running threads? White clothing shows up in motorists’ headlights too, and you can add a cheap reflective armband for extra safety points. ✻ Position yourself It’s not just cyclists who need to position themselves in traffic carefully – runners should be mindful on the road too. “Running against the flow of traffic will increase your safety by preventing people from driving close behind you,” says self-defence expert Khalid Ismail. This will also mean you’ll be able to see the cars heading in your direction on your side of the road. Here’s a top tip – don’t push yourself to the max. “It’s best to avoid hard workouts when you’re by yourself,” says Walker. “If you get too tired, you’ll be unable to defend yourself.” This doesn’t mean you have to miss out on tough sessions – consider joining a running club or running with friends. ✻ Take action For the goal setter Need motivation to run that extra km? Download the Nike+ Running app and watch your urban footprint as you pound the pavement and mark your movement along the way. What would you do if something didn’t seem right? Run like crazy, that’s what! “Always act on instinct,” Walker advises. “If something looks or feels wrong, it probably is.” Running alone? Try a safety app like Life360 (life360. com). It allows your friends and family to follow your route and if anything should happen, you can hit a panic button to alert them to where you are. Nifty. Ask the experts Q womensfitnessmagazine.com.au ✻ Don’t push it What’s the best way to get rid of a mid-run stitch? A “Instead of stopping, keep running at a much slower pace and exhale simultaneously. The sudden onset and intensity of a stitch feels alarming, but it’s not an injury. It’s a cramp of the diaphragmatic muscle on one side that occurs when your breathing movements are repeatedly out of sync with your stride. Release the muscle cramp by breathing out forcefully when your heel opposite the stitch strikes the ground. If the stitch occurs on your right side, slow down your pace, put your hand over the stitch, take a deep breath in, then a breath out as your left womensfitnessaustralia @womensfitnessmag For the visual learner If you love a good stat, Runmeter GPS charts everything from your distance, heart rate, PBs, laps and training plans. foot hits the ground. It doesn’t have to be every left heel strike but keep doing this until your stitch vanishes.” Dr Claudia Lee, WF expert general practitioner Q What’s the best mid-running race snack for longer runs? A “Your body can only use what it has digested so during a long-distance run you need to provide your body with an easily digestible fuel. That’s why products like sports drinks, sports gels and lollies are great options. They’re portable, instant energy supplies.” Caitlin Reid, WF expert dietitian @womensfitnessau You told us… steps “Up hills, take small and lif t your knees.” Thanks, Anna_ louisa88 (via Instagram) For the super runner Looking for a little friendly rivalry to supercharge your PB? Download Strava for a community at the tap of a finger. Challenge others, set records and climb the points-based leaderboards. ❯ 53 Try this: Chi running Look the part our style-in-motion must-haves This energy-efficient and injury-free form of running uses principles of Tai chi. According to chi running expert Lucia Hamzova, “It teaches us to feel strong and powerful in the core while the rest of the body is relaxed.” Keep reading for Lucia’s tips to getting your chi run on: Sports Bras LMA Active, $29.95, from Harris Scarfe Bonds Active Track, $34.95 L’urv, $79 Lucas Hugh, $160 Proof Eyewear ‘Ontario’, $149.99 Local Supply, $59.95 Giorgio Armani, $260 Adidas, $220 Reebok, $160 Airflex, $99.99 Roxy, $69.99 Ice-Watch, $129 Nixon Time Teller P, $99.99, from General Pants Co. ❯ Love 2 Run, $39.95 Shorts You told us… I pump “Mum always said if ing, my my arms when runn atter how legs will follow no m rks!” fatigued I am. It wo Thanks, Bree (via Facebook) #4 Arm swing: Arms should be set in an L shape, swinging back and kept close to the body. Imagine you’re holding a volleyball in front of you, so your arms don’t cross the centre. Your fingers should only be lightly closed in a fist. If you get tired during a run, just add more arm swing. 54 Panache, $113.50 #loves # 3 Get aligned: Bring your shoulders over the hip bone, hip over the ankles, keeping feet grounded. You’ll feel your whole body on a slight forward angle. As you lean, gravity takes over and all you have to do is pick up your heels, and fall forward, without pushing off or using excess energy. Sand: Doing a few laps on the beach every now and then will strengthen the arches of your feet, ankles and other lower leg muscles. It also has the benefit of reducing the impact on your joints and increasing your energy consumption, which will supercharge your training. Don’t go too hard too soon, or you’ll risk tight calf muscles. Slowly building up to longer distances is key. UA Armour, $69.99 tanks #2 Mid-foot landing: The midfoot is the three points that connect into a triangle (between the big toe, small toe and the heel). Always land on the midfoot to prevent injuries and to ensure body weight is evenly distributed on both legs. WF’s resident personal trainer Libby Babet offers a lesson on tackling different running terrains. Triaction, $49.95 Berlei, $49.95 #1 Relax: This allows us to run effortlessly, with the free flow of energy. Mix it up Runni ng specia l Barefoot: This allows your feet to move through a natural range of motion and, over time, they’ll become stronger. It’s important to start with super-low mileage (we’re talking in the hundreds of metres, not in the kilometres here) to make sure you don’t end up with overuse injuries. Start completely barefoot on a hard-ish surface, like packed sand or a track, and try to land lightly, without thudding your feet down. The less impact, the better! Steps/hills: Your body is a smart little cookie and quickly adapts to long, slow runs. This is where mixing it up with sessions that get your heart rate through the roof is important. Stairs, hills and interval training are the best womensfitnessmagazine.com.au womensfitnessaustralia @womensfitnessmag “Your body is a smart little cookie and quickly adapts to long runs” ways to do this and they’re also fab, no-brainer sessions. Find a hill or a set of stairs, run up and jog/ walk down. Repeat six-to-10 times (depending on the length of the hill/set of stairs), and then your training is done! Short, sweet and sweaty … just the way we like it. @womensfitnessau sunglasses trainers watches 55 Runni ng specia l Hit the pavement... injury-free! Events Race day essentials Former Aussie 800m runner and chiropractor Kate Wood tells us how. 1 Have your running shoes fitted by a professional every time. It’s hard not to go for the nice colours but, when it comes to preventing injuries, the correct footwear will make your long-term performance much prettier! If your feet are excessively rolling in or out, or you have pain during or after running, get them assessed for orthotics. The best type are semi-rigid orthotics that are supportive but don’t lock your foot into a rigid structure. Have your spine and joints checked by a sports chiropractor, osteopath or manipulative physiotherapist before you start an intense period of training. This will help identify areas of muscle weakness, bio-mechanical breakdown, nervous system firing issues or potential injuries. Regular massage, reflexology, chiropractic, osteopathy, bowen therapy or physiotherapy treatments are important. Just like you service your car before it breaks down, your body also works best when readjusted regularly. 5 Foot and arch strength exercises are essential to keep the feet strong, especially if you’re wearing orthotics. (Just a quick a side note, although orthotics support the feet and prevent injuries, they’re actually doing the work for the foot and hence make them weaker over time). A well-planned program that gradually increases the demands on your body (aka ‘progressive overload’) allows your body to adapt to the training. Running on softer surfaces, rather than on cement paths, also gives the body more longevity as there’s less impact on joints. The better your technique, the better your chance of preventing common injuries. Poor foot placement, over-striding, excess pelvic rotation and lack of arm drive all create more stress. Regular stretches will most likely prevent injuries and assist recovery. This can be teamed with Epsom salt baths, saunas, heat, ice and hot/cold treatments. Having a strong core protects your lower back and gives you a base to pivot when you run. It allows glutes to fire better, which takes the load off hamstrings. Pain and twinges are messages from your body that something is not right. You can dose up on pain killers, limp and strap but if you don’t address the cause of the problem it will either get worse or compensate in another area. 6 2 7 3 8 4 9 10 What to pack in your kit to get you through the big day. A sweat towel Made of microfibre, it’s perfect for a post-run wipe down. Lululemon, $39 + The night before a race/run: Tuna pasta, homemade vegetarian pizza, chicken and brown rice stir-fry + + The morning of a race/ run: Weet-Bix, peanut butter on toast, banana and yoghurt + + When you’re training: Spaghetti bolognaise, chicken noodle stir-fry, Bircher muesli 56 womensfitnessmagazine.com.au You told us… Shoe insoles Good support makes all the difference. Add these inserts for a cushy run. Footcare, $17.99 Breathable underwear Run easy with these light, breathable undies. Lululemon, $19 Blister band-aids Don’t let rubbing hold you back. Compeed Blister Patch, $13.69, Priceline + womensfitnessaustralia Vic Melbourne Electric Run, 12 April: Run or dance the 5km. Great Ocean Road Marathon, 17-18 May: Hit the pavement on this world-famous route. Running belt The easiest way to carry your iPhone, keys and cash, leaving your hands free. Nathan Sports, $35 Dietitian Susie Burrell Fuel Your Run suggests these eats... Anti chafe Glide on arms pre-run. Body Glide For Her, $16.99, Rebel Sport @womensfitnessmag NSW City2Surf, 10 August: Grab some friends for this iconic run. Sydney Running Festival, 21 September: Brilliant views. @womensfitnessau ing author “This quote by runn n just makes Dr George Sheeha e [real] sense: ‘You learn th st the little competition is again wants voice inside you that to quit.’ ” Thanks, ok) Hayley (via Facebo ACT Australian Running Festival, 12-13 April: Try the 5km or tough it out in the ultra-marathon. Canberra Times Fun Run, 14 September: Not a polly in sight. Tas City to Casino, 18 May: Explore Hobart on this fun run. Launceston Ten, 15 June: It’s Oz’s fastest 10km road race. Qld Gold Coast Airport Marathon, 5-6 July: For runners of all levels. City2South, 15 June: Get to know Brissy on this 14km jaunt. NT Mother’s Day Classic, 11 May: Run for a loved one. Candy Jam, 30 August: Be blasted by colour on this course. SA Neon Run, 5 April: Make your way through 5km of neon. Adelaide Marathon Running Festival, 24 August: Tackle the 10km run or full marathon. WA Easter Soft Sand Classic Run, 12 April: Get a team together for the 2.5km or 15km. Surf to Surf Fun Run, 19 October: Views you’ll love. ❯ 57 Runni ng specia l guide to… You told us… “Focus on your brea thing and the rest follows. I br eathe in through my nose fo r 3 seconds, out through my mou th for 3 seconds.” Thanks , @petatreloar (via Instagram) g n i n i a r t event How it works: Each program builds on the one before, so you can eventually work your way up to a full marathon. Session types: Race pace: This is the speed you plan to run your race, so do the maths and have your watch at the ready. The 10km Plan Wk 1 2 3 4 Monday INTERVALS: fast run 1 min, jog 2 mins; repeat x 10 HILLS: 25 mins; run up, slow jog down REPEATS: 5 x 400m, rest 2 mins between HILLS: 30 mins; run up, slow jog down 5 EASY RUN: 6km 6 INTERVALS: 6km alternating run/jog lengths Tuesday Tempo run: Starts with a slow jog, ramps up to a race pace, then eases at the end. Easy run: Running at a pace you could comfortably hold a conversation. Interval session: Switch between faster-paced running and slower jogging. Hills: Keep a strong pace on the uphill charge, then relax and slow downhill. Wednesday 1 2 3 Monday REPEATS: 3 x 1,200m, rest 3 mins between REPEATS: 6 x 800m, rest 3 mins between HILLS: 30 mins; run up, slow jog down Friday Saturday Sunday Rest/stretch Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 5km EASY RUN: 6km Rest/stretch Rest/stretch TEMPO RUN: jog 10 mins, race pace 20 mins, jog 5 mins REPEATS: 5 x 400m, rest 90 sec between Cross train Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 7km Rest/stretch Rest/stretch INTERVALS: 6km alternating run/jog Cross train Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 8km Rest/stretch Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 5km Cross train Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 10km Rest/stretch Rest/stretch REPEATS: 4 x 800m, rest 3 mins between EASY RUN: 5km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 8km Rest/stretch Rest/stretch TEMPO RUN: jog 1km, run at race pace 3km, jog 1 km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 3km + 20 mins stretch RACE DAY ❤ Half-marathon Plan Wk Thursday Repeats: You’ll need a sports field and a watch with a GPS to mark the distances. Complete these as fast as you can. Cross train: Ideally an activity, anything other than running, that works on your strength. You could try circuits, weights sessions, dance-conditioning classes, power yoga, swimming, cycling or surfing. EASY RUN: 5km Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 6km Cross train Rest/stretch INTERVALS: 8km alternating run/jog lengths Rest/stretch Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 8km Cross train Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 10km Rest/stretch Rest/stretch INTERVALS: fast run 60 sec, jog 90 sec; repeat x 15 EASY RUN: 9km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 15km Rest/stretch 4 REPEATS: 3 x 1,500m, rest 4 mins between Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 12km Cross train Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 20km Rest/stretch 5 EASY RUN: 8km Rest/stretch INTERVALS: 8km alternating run/jog lengths EASY RUN: 15km Rest/stretch Cross train EASY RUN: 3km + 20 mins stretch 6 TEMPO RUN: jog 10 mins, race pace 20 mins, jog 10 mins Rest/stretch INTERVALS: 8km alternating run/jog lengths EASY RUN: 15km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 5km + 20 mins stretch RACE DAY ❤ 58 womensfitnessmagazine.com.au womensfitnessaustralia @womensfitnessmag @womensfitnessau compiled by SAM BAILEY, DEAN HODGKIN, SARAH IVORY, VINCE JACKSON, SAMERA KAMALEDDINE & LEDA ROSS photography James Evans; Getty Images; Bauer Syndication; 727inc.com/folio-id.com; James Moffat Still-life photography Ben Hansen still-life styling Leda Ross bigger, badder race, a le ck ta to y ad re e u’r yo fun runs or Whether you’ve only done half- and full-marathon , km 10 a r fo s an pl g in in the tra Libby Babet breaks down full-marathon plan WK Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 1 REPEATS: 6 x 800m, rest 3 mins between Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 10km EASY RUN: 14km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 4km EASY RUN: 10km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 8km EASY RUN: 15km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 4km race pace: 25km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 10km Cross train Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 8km EASY RUN: 10km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 12km EASY RUN: 8km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 5km race pace: 20km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 5km EASY RUN: 35km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 6km EASY RUN: 25km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 5km EASY RUN: 20km Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 3km + 20 mins stretch 2 3 4 INTERVALS: 10km alternating run/jog lengths REPEATS: 6 x 800m, rest 2 mins between REPEATS: 4 x 1,500m, rest 4 mins between TEMPO RUN: jog 10 mins, race pace EASY RUN: 14km 25 mins, jog 10 mins INTERVALS: 8km alternating EASY RUN: 15km run/jog lengths 5 EASY RUN: 8km Rest/stretch 6 EASY RUN: 10km Rest/stretch 7 HILLS: 30 mins; run up, slow jog down Rest/stretch TEMPO RUN: jog 10 mins, race pace EASY RUN: 10km 25 mins, jog 10 mins 8 INTERVALS: 8km alternating run/jog lengths Rest/stretch EASY RUN: 6km Rest/stretch RACE DAY 59