Outdoor Fitness

The Difference Between Running and Jogging

What’s the difference between jogging and running? Is there really a difference between the two? And does it even matter? For some people, it does. In some running communities, being referred to as a “jogger” is not complimentary. But the definition can vary and there really isn’t a strict rule that clearly delineates when you are running and when you are jogging. …
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Outdoor Fitness

8 Tips to Start Running Again After a Long Break

Are you ready to start running again? Maybe you took a break because of an injury, a lack of motivation, or work responsibilities that demanded your time. But, with the right plan and a little patience, you can get on back on track with your training schedule. If…
Outdoor Fitness

Should You Run on Your Toes, Heels, or Midfoot?

All runners have their own form, stride, and footstrike. While there are some universal guidelines to follow for proper running form, where your feet hit the ground is often a matter of personal preference. Whether you’re running on your toes, heels, or midfoot, every…
Outdoor Fitness

How to Run Longer Distances

One of the biggest challenges that new runners face is learning how to run farther. Beginners often get injured, bored, or burned out before they meet their mileage goals for long-distance running. Once you hit a plateau, it can be tough to dig deeper and push past it. As you try to push your limits, you are likely to face both physical and mental obstacles. This is a normal part of the training…
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Outdoor Fitness

How to Run Longer Without Getting Tired

New runners often feel frustrated when they get winded soon after starting a run. It’s not necessarily your fitness level that’s the issue—it’s the speed at which you are running and the way you are running. Improving your running form and economy can…
Outdoor Fitness

Warm-Ups, Cool-Downs, and Stretching for Running

All of your runs should start with a warmup and end with a cooldown. These two bookends to your run will help you prepare your muscles to perform optimally, and will also help you recover at the end of your workout. How to Do a Running Warmup Take these steps for your warmup: Do about five to 10 minutes of light aerobic exercise to loosen up your muscles and warm up for your run. Some good…
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Outdoor Fitness

Fartlek Training for Runners

Fartlek is a Swedish term that means “speed play.” Fartlek training is a form of interval or speed training that can be effective in improving your running speed and endurance. Fartlek running involves varying your pace throughout your run, alternating between…
Outdoor Fitness

Your Guide to a Runner's Diet

For runners, diet and nutrition are crucial not only for maintaining good health but also to promote peak performance. Proper nutrition and hydration can make or break a workout or race and affect how you feel, work, and think. One of the most common questions new runners…
Outdoor Fitness

10 Ways to Run a Faster Mile

Are you hoping to improve your mile time? Whether you’re a high school track athlete, a beginning-level runner, or a masters runner, making minor changes to your training routine can improve your pace. If you don’t know your current mile time (or it’s been a while since you clocked your mile), start by doing a timed trial on a track to set a baseline to measure your…
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