Sunday, May 5, 2013

Running Workshop

I had the opportunity to attend a running workshop held by Hillseeker Fitness with the aim to assess  and improve my running technique.

The workshop started out with a session where we were videoed running, so the coach could assess our technique and where we need to improve it.  I got up there thinking my technique was spot on - I mean, it's running, it's natural, right? 

WRONG!

This meme has never rung so true for anyone, ever, in the world:

I was pounding the ground on my heel with a totally extended knee, and my arms were so stiff I looked like a nutcracker soldier. This could explain why I'm always experiencing knee and calf injuries, and why my mean case of plantar fasciitis hasn't improved in over a year.

There was lots of work to do.

Throughout the day we learned new techniques, both physically and mentally, to help us improve our running. Some of the physical techniques showed me how to stop jarring my knee and heel. The mental techniques helped me with running longer and coping with hills.

That's me, on the far left, being awesome in one of the Running Workshop drills.
Two days after the running workshop, I attempted a 5k again. I concentrated on what I was taught with my body positioning, my breathing, my focus, everything. It worked so well that I didn't even need to stop - not once!!! I kept going and going and, when I reached the end, I felt I could have kept on going! I ended up knocking 7 minutes off my previous 5k time. 

7 MINUTES!

This running workshop completely changed the way I run and the improvements were noticeable straight away. Everyone in the workshop has said that same thing, and having met with others who have previously taken the workshop, they all say it was the greatest thing that's ever improved their running. If you're thinking of getting into running, I strongly suggest taking one. You can learn more Hillseeker Fitness and their Efficient Running Workshops here.

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