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The Athlete's Foot MyFit
Our MyFit Blog aims to engage and inform so that we can collectively empower everyday athletes to better their best with every run.
Running Strides 101
If your running routine is starting to feel a bit tiresome, or you’re looking to add some new techniques to improve your endurance and pace. Why not try running strides? What are running strides, you ask? Well, strap on those running shoes[CB1] , and read on for our easy guide to help you get out there and trying something new!
What are strides
Formed as part of a training plan for your running, strides running, is where you participate in short, accelerated bursts of running 20 to 30 seconds at a time. The idea is that you’re looking to exaggerate your current running style at this faster pace.
Benefits of running strides
Beneficial for all runners, with proper planning, this type of training can help you to improve your running form. Running strides can help you build tolerance and improve your overall stride length.
How to run strides
We recommend planning your run on a flat surface, that can allow for bursts of strides running (think 75 – 100 meters at a time). Whilst a running track is an ideal environment, not everyone has easy access to one of these, so try running alongside a riverbank, round your local oval or park.
You can attempt this on a treadmill as well, as long as you feel comfortable adjusting the speed of the treadmill up and down manually.
Don’t forget you need to incorporate a warm up into your workout routine, with stretching, walking and a slower paced run.
Begin by going easy at first, increasing your speed by lengthening your stride. Aim to keep your middle body tall. Rather than feeling like your pushing off to a sprint, it should feel like you’re in control of your faster pace. 3 quarters in, pull back and start to decelerate by shortening your stride down to a walking speed.
When to try running strides
If you are newer to this concept, potentially try around 4 drills to start with, and aim to build it up to around 8 as you start to feel more comfortable with stride running.
Aim to incorporate them into your easy runs at least once a week.
Our favourite running shoes for stride running
When you’re running strides, lightweight comfort is key. A lighter running shoe will eleviate effort underfoot and help you focus on improving your game. We really love these silhouettes as part of our training schedule.
The Saucony Kinvara Pro collection has been proven to provide added efficiency to your runs. Think all the benefits of a super shoe tightly wrapped into a daily running shoe. The thicker sole offers softer protection underfoot, and the carbon plate offers added spring for propulsion. With styles for men and women, and a range of colour options, shop the Saucony Kinvara Pro collection.
What are strides
Formed as part of a training plan for your running, strides running, is where you participate in short, accelerated bursts of running 20 to 30 seconds at a time. The idea is that you’re looking to exaggerate your current running style at this faster pace.
Benefits of running strides
Beneficial for all runners, with proper planning, this type of training can help you to improve your running form. Running strides can help you build tolerance and improve your overall stride length.
How to run strides
We recommend planning your run on a flat surface, that can allow for bursts of strides running (think 75 – 100 meters at a time). Whilst a running track is an ideal environment, not everyone has easy access to one of these, so try running alongside a riverbank, round your local oval or park.
You can attempt this on a treadmill as well, as long as you feel comfortable adjusting the speed of the treadmill up and down manually.
Don’t forget you need to incorporate a warm up into your workout routine, with stretching, walking and a slower paced run.
- Start at a walk or jog
- Increase running speed and open your strides
- Run at this speed for 15 seconds
- Slow back down to a walk
- Rest for a least at least two minutes
Begin by going easy at first, increasing your speed by lengthening your stride. Aim to keep your middle body tall. Rather than feeling like your pushing off to a sprint, it should feel like you’re in control of your faster pace. 3 quarters in, pull back and start to decelerate by shortening your stride down to a walking speed.
When to try running strides
If you are newer to this concept, potentially try around 4 drills to start with, and aim to build it up to around 8 as you start to feel more comfortable with stride running.
Aim to incorporate them into your easy runs at least once a week.
Our favourite running shoes for stride running
When you’re running strides, lightweight comfort is key. A lighter running shoe will eleviate effort underfoot and help you focus on improving your game. We really love these silhouettes as part of our training schedule.
The Saucony Kinvara Pro collection has been proven to provide added efficiency to your runs. Think all the benefits of a super shoe tightly wrapped into a daily running shoe. The thicker sole offers softer protection underfoot, and the carbon plate offers added spring for propulsion. With styles for men and women, and a range of colour options, shop the Saucony Kinvara Pro collection.
If you’re a neutral runner, the HOKA Rincon range is a solid option if you’re planning on incorporating strides into your training plan. With a perfect cushion to weight ratio, the Rincon offers a lightweight ride to its wearer including vented mesh for added breathability. With styles for men and women and a great choice of colours, shop the HOKA Rincon range today.
