Why should I run & walk?
Running continuously without breaks can lead to increased fatigue and muscle soreness. Implementing a run/walk strategy allows you to extend your running duration while still providing adequate recovery time for your subsequent workouts. Consistency is key for endurance runners, as it helps prevent injuries and keeps you fresh for training sessions.
Run & walk strategies can be particularly beneficial if you fall into one of the following categories:
- If you are recovering from an injury, implementing a run & walk strategy can help you gradually rebuild your running capacity while minimizing the risk of re-injury.
- If you are new to running or returning to it after a break, a run & walk approach allows you to gradually adapt to the demands of running, reducing the risk of overexertion.
- If you are increasing your running distance for the first time, incorporating walk breaks can provide a structured progression, allowing your body to adjust gradually.
- If you are in a de-trained or less fit state, using a run & walk strategy can help you ease back into running and rebuild your fitness levels.
The key to success with a run & walk strategy is making gradual progressions to improve your endurance safely. It offers several advantages:
- Minimizes the risk of injury and controls fatigue.
- Provides a structured progression, breaking down challenging workouts into manageable segments.
- Reduces stress on the body and mind.
- Allows you to carry on with your daily activities without excessive fatigue post-run.
- Promotes faster recovery.
Determining the correct load
Choosing the appropriate ratio of running to walking depends on factors such as fitness level, experience, strength, and running ability. Run & walk strategies are not just for beginners; runners of all levels can benefit from incorporating walk breaks to promote better recovery. Remember, the goal is not to feel completely exhausted at the end of each long run.
Mechanical efficiency
When implementing walk breaks, it’s essential to maintain proper form. Keep your arms engaged, avoid over-striding, and stay dynamic. Relaxing too much during the walk breaks may make it harder to transition back into running smoothly.
Transitioning to Continuous Running
Whether to transition to continuous running or stick with a run/walk strategy is a personal choice. Run & walk strategies are successfully employed in races by many runners, leading to impressive results. Adjust your strategy based on your abilities and goals.
Setting up an alarm
Set up a timer to remind yourself when to walk and run. The alarm will help you maintain consistency and automatically switch between running and walking intervals.
Determining the optimal run & walk ratio for your long runs may require some trial and error to find what works best for you while ensuring progression without excessive fatigue. The initial step is to establish your Z2 pace, which can be done through a blood lactate testing or field test during the few weeks of your training plan. When deciding on the ratio, it’s essential to consider that incorporating walk breaks before your running muscles start to tire allows for a much better recovery. While individual preferences may vary, the table below offers some general guidelines to help you get started:
| Ratio | Description |
|---|---|
| 4:1 | Run for four minutes, walk for one minute |
| 3:1 | Run for three minutes, walk for one minute |
| 2:1 | Run for two minutes, walk for one minute |
| 1:1 | Equal running and walking intervals |
| 1:2 | Run for one minute, walk for two minutes |
The Importance of the Long Run
The long aerobic run is a crucial component of your training plan. While the approach to this workout may vary depending on factors such as experience, fitness level, ability, and goals, the ultimate purpose remains consistent:
- The long run helps you increase your running endurance, bringing you closer to achieving your goals.
- By consistently engaging in longer runs, your body becomes more efficient at delivering energy (ATP) to your working muscles, allowing you to sustain higher paces over time.
- Endurance running places significant impact forces on your muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints. Engaging in long runs helps strengthen these muscles, the entire support system, enabling them to better cope with the demands of running (impact).
- The long run serves as an opportunity to mentally prepare yourself for the challenges that come with running longer distances. It builds mental toughness and resilience.
- Long runs provide an ideal chance to experiment with and refine your nutrition and hydration strategies, ensuring you have an effective plan in place for race day.
