Before embarking on any training programme runners need to realistically assess what their objectives are and work back from these.
Here are a couple of thoughts to consider:
- Are you running to lose weight and gain general fitness?
- Are you running to meet a specific performance target?
- Are you running to compete in a specific event e.g. a marathon or a 10k?
- What distances do you wish to cover in training and/or for a race?
- How much time per week can you dedicate to running?
Appropriate training programmes for each of the above requirements will vary considerably – training to compete in a marathon obviously means a different programme and level of commitment to training for a triathlon or fun run.
To help runners with their training and race preparation, ASICS has devised a number of training schedules which are specific to the runner’s requirements and details such as training commitment and race goals. These can be accessed free at www.myasics.co.uk.
Whatever training schedule a runner embarks upon it is essential that they invest in the right running shoes and equipment. The right shoes and equipment will optimise running performance and minimise risk of injury. ASICS Running Clinics offer a gait assessment and 3D foot mapping service to help runner’s find the best shoe for them.
Further advice
ASICS Running Clinics Pro Team can offer advice on training - click the links below to see their advice.
Comments
Alan:
Hi, I go to the gym 5 nights a week to weight train. All body parts are covered however i want to start running to strenghen my lungs as i have asthma but also to get generally fit and burn body fat to help show my abs. Advice on how to increase my fitness levels please.
Nov. 30, 2011
shasha:
Hi, I wanted to take part in marathon in next summers but I have never gone through physical training or gone to gym. Therefore, I wanted some sort of suggestions if you could give some. I have started running and I am finding that I don't have stamina and I tend to throb a lot almost every 10 minutes of run, it feels as if I have completely lost my breath . Can you suggest me as how to make over my plans so that I am able to prepare myself before the next summers.
Oct. 29, 2011
shasha:
Hi, I wanted to take part in marathon in next summers but I have never gone through physical training or gone to gym. Therefore, I wanted some sort of suggestions if you could give some. I have started running and I am finding that I don't have stamina and I tend to throb a lot almost every 10 minutes of run, it feels as if I have completely lost my breath . Can you suggest me as how to make over my plans so that I am able to prepare myself before the next summers. Thanks Shasha
Oct. 29, 2011
david:
hi from david .i am just asking..i would like to thank you or your help..first .i am running for sinces i was young,,ok but what i would like is some help//i work for shopping centre.in limerick and i work.hard.hours.i work.12 rooster shift.and sinces they have changed the shifts..it has up set some of my running..i work hard hours.i train for marathons..i run 5 days aweek..i go to gym.and also do some cycling when get chances..also some swimmimg.i ran 15 mile races,in killarney good hard.run,,i am doing dublin.in october.should i kneed to be doing hill work again.dublin.is.not hills..i am on program.with ye..thanks..david..if any .one.has.some.help.that.they can give.me.thanks.david
Jul. 16, 2011
Leah Jones:
Hi, I really enjoy long runs and run 16mls once a week but on the 4th week i do a shorter run, with shorter runs in the week including speed work. I feel 16mls is a good distance to keep going as when training for a full mar i dont have so many miles to work on and i allready have a good base . Other runners say I should not do this as i will get injured and ware myself out. whats your views on this training thank you.
Apr. 27, 2011
nick kirton:
After having thyroid problems(now under controll) ive managed to lose over 7 stone(now 16 stone) and after a 15 months training at the gym (75%cardio work) ive started running outside and love it ! ive always been very active reguardless of my weight,i run around 4 times a week (between 25k and 30k in total )and do about an hour gym after my runs and also do gym work on the other 3 days, am i best leaving the heavy weights alone while i try to cut more weight . im not to worried about my times (5k in 26-29 mins and 10k in 55-60 mins) but i am keen to cover more distance . any tips or advice would be a great help . nick kirton
Apr. 25, 2011
Helen:
I have 8weeks untill my marathon. However I have had to take the last 3 weeks off running due to discomfort in my leg and hip which I have been advised by a physio is caused by over pronation. Prior to this break the furthest distance I covered was 13miles. Do you have any training advice on how I can get back on track quickly without over doing it as the problem with my feet has not been solved yet. Thanks Helen
Mar. 29, 2011