Running

I'll start with a very simple sentence:

I love running.

For me, running is an escape from the chaos of daily life and a chance to let my thoughts wander. I used to focus purely on the physical side of running but now, whilst that's still important to me, it's a much more mindful activity.

I now try to only run on quiet country roads, on trails, in the woods or anywhere away from noise and distraction - have even been known to not track my runs for Strava - unthinkable! I find running a calming, therapeutic form of exercise and I enjoy it a lot more now that I am less concerned about how for or fast I go.

Physiologically, it's an incredibly beneficial part of my exercise regime and I recommend it to anyone that can do it. It doesn't have to be about breaking speed records or climbing the biggest hills - getting out for a 20 minute run/walk is amazing for the cardiovascular system and for working your muscles outside of their usual comfort zone.

I do still hit a run hard when I need to. I'll push the distance or pace if I feel like that's what I need and gear a lot of training for myself and my clients towards improving running. Plyometric training is a particular favourite of mine and it's underused by the vast majority of runners. It literally adds a spring to your step and helps you to strike the ground harder, more efficiently and for longer.

Start by adding 10 minutes of simple plyometrics to your sessions and develop from there.