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We accelerate our cars by pushing down on the accelerator (gas pedal), but we often forget to accelerate our running.<\/p>\n We accelerate our cars by pushing down on the accelerator (gas pedal), but we often forget to accelerate our running.<\/p>\n
I recently switched training programs and now after every easy run I’m supposed to do accelerations. I remember how important these are because we use to do them a lot at Taylor, but since then I haven’t done them much but did do their close cousin: strides<\/a>.<\/p>\n Accelerations are different than strides but have many of the same benefits. Often part of a broader plyometric set (or speed form training), accelerations are simple and can be done anywhere you run. All you need is about 100 yards of smooth surface.<\/p>\n The purpose of speed-form training is to improve your leg turnover (or stride frequency, as some call it), power, running economy, and relaxation while running. Runner’s World<\/a> <\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Accelerations should be done after your body is already warmed-up, you should run for at least 10 minutes before doing these. It is best to already have a decent level of conditioning and some speed work history. If you haven’t done any speedwork you should focus on strides first.<\/p>\n Build up to doing between 4 or 5 accelerations.<\/p>\n Technorati tags: running<\/a>, form<\/a>, acceleration<\/a>, lost art<\/a><\/p>\n\n