Ed's Blog: 4 Common Sense Tips to Help You Run Better

Submitted by Ed Griffin, Co-Owner, Fleet Feet Sports, Syracuse

As we get older, adjustments need to be made to your running routines. Even if you are relatively young, there are some basic things you can do that will help you feel better, make running easier and reduce the risks of getting injured.

1) Be like Gumby!

Flexibility may be the secret weapon of running because the act of running shortens muscle groups and makes them tighter and less efficient in absorbing shock.  Fleet Feet Sports has a flotilla of massage tools that will help you stay flexible. Even doing Yoga a couple times per week will help.

2) Drink like a fish.

It is hot out and water and sports drinks will help your muscles flush out the toxins that are created in physical exercise and of course keep your body hydrated. Sports drinks that we carry at Fleet Feet Sports have lots of extra benefits engineered into them and our staff can help guide you to find products that will meet your needs.

3) Go crazy and break up your routine. 

If you run the same route day after day, you essentially are using the same muscles on the same surface, increasing overuse injuries. Changing things up will help your body adapt to different terrain and elevations. Go off road on a trail, run a hilly course or try some interval work on the track.  It is all good and will make you a better runner.

4) Take a day off.

As crazy as it sounds, taking a day off of running may be better for you than running when you are physically exhausted because the human body can use recovery time. Instead of running go for a walk, play golf, lift some weights, work in the garden, play with your dog or take a nap.