RUNNING INFORMATION ARTICLES

Running - Interval Training

In simple terms, Interval Training involves a series of high intensity training which is followed by periods of rest. This type of training helps improve the delivery of oxygen to the muscles. Because of this, Interval Training is often used by long distance runners to build up their endurance.

This type of training is designed to push your body to the limit. That is why it is advisable to do warm ups, stretching exercises, and to run a few rounds first before doing this type of activity.

There are three main things you have to take into consideration when you do Interval Training: distance, number of repetitions, and the length of the period of rest in between sessions. As a rule of thumb, the longer the distance you run and push yourself, the more time you need to rest and let your heartbeat slow down a little. Always take note of these factors to make it easier for you to monitor your progress.

Here’s a sample training for starters. You can try doing intense running for 30 seconds for each session which is then followed by a minute of rest in between sessions. From there, you can build it up to eventually running for a longer time and having as much as five minutes of rest in between.

There are a lot of varieties of the methods you can do under Interval Training. Doing so can prevent you from getting bored with it or getting burnt out. One thing you can do is run intensely on a set distance and walk back to your starting point, and run again the same distance after a period of rest. For instance, if you run for a hundred meters, walk back to your starting point and run again after a minute of rest. You can mix and match those factors so you will be able to challenge yourself every time you do this activity.

If you’re really serious about Running, we advise you to include Interval Training to your training regimen. It can do wonders to your performance especially if you plan to run longer distances, from the 5k run to a full Marathon.

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