Common Mistakes- Training and Racing
Performing well in your races takes a lot of trial and error in both training and racing before you find what works well for you. We will introduce a number of common mistakes made by athletes in both training and racing.
Training
Training too fast.
This is the most common mistake. Most athletes believe that in order to go fast you have to train fast which is not the case. While there is a period of time in a training plan devoted going fast, most trainings should be done at a pace for a comfortable conversation to be held.
Inconsistency
Runners that do a little often will see bigger results than runners who do a lot seldom. Training consistency is probably the most important aspect of training so get out there each day even if it’s only for a short jog.
Training in the wrong shoe
In running, shoe selection is crucial in remaining injury free and enjoying the experience. A good shoe should suit your foot type (see a podiatrist, ask your coach or speak with a local dealer) and be the right fit. If it looks cool too, that will be a bonus.
Racing
Starting too fast
In racing, it is very important to start at a pace you can hold throughout the entire event. Start slowly and work your way into the race. You will overtake a lot of people in the last half who had started too fast.
Forgetting to drink
Even though it is a race, you still need to stay hydrated. Before the race make a plan about when you want to drink and stick to it. Not only will you feel better in the race, you will recover faster afterwards too.
Getting side tracked
Control the controllable. Many athletes get caught up worrying about situations they cannot control and forget about what is really important – the process. You cannot control the weather or your competitors so forget about them. You can control your pace, your technique and your drink strategy and that is what you should be thinking about.
I have spent many years and tens of thousands of hours learning this the hard way. Hopefully you can make some small adjustments to what you are currently doing and learn from other people’s mistakes. It is the quickest way to the top.
Article by:
Racers’ Toolbox http://www.racers-toolbox.com
Training
Training too fast.
This is the most common mistake. Most athletes believe that in order to go fast you have to train fast which is not the case. While there is a period of time in a training plan devoted going fast, most trainings should be done at a pace for a comfortable conversation to be held.
Inconsistency
Runners that do a little often will see bigger results than runners who do a lot seldom. Training consistency is probably the most important aspect of training so get out there each day even if it’s only for a short jog.
Training in the wrong shoe
In running, shoe selection is crucial in remaining injury free and enjoying the experience. A good shoe should suit your foot type (see a podiatrist, ask your coach or speak with a local dealer) and be the right fit. If it looks cool too, that will be a bonus.
Racing
Starting too fast
In racing, it is very important to start at a pace you can hold throughout the entire event. Start slowly and work your way into the race. You will overtake a lot of people in the last half who had started too fast.
Forgetting to drink
Even though it is a race, you still need to stay hydrated. Before the race make a plan about when you want to drink and stick to it. Not only will you feel better in the race, you will recover faster afterwards too.
Getting side tracked
Control the controllable. Many athletes get caught up worrying about situations they cannot control and forget about what is really important – the process. You cannot control the weather or your competitors so forget about them. You can control your pace, your technique and your drink strategy and that is what you should be thinking about.
I have spent many years and tens of thousands of hours learning this the hard way. Hopefully you can make some small adjustments to what you are currently doing and learn from other people’s mistakes. It is the quickest way to the top.
Article by:
Racers’ Toolbox http://www.racers-toolbox.com
