Q&A for How to Be a Good Runner

Many runners think that it is necessary to run very fast. But this is a mistake. When they do this, they work their anaerobic systems rather than their aerobic systems. Therefore, they fail to enhance their endurance. If you work continuously at 170 beats per minute, you are working hard and at an anaerobic state. To run in an aerobic state, teach yourself to work at 150 beats per minute.

Pace yourself. Going for runs weekly allows you to know your limits and how fast you should go for different distances. Try to add 200 to 300 meters to each run, so you improve and do not get as tired during long distance.

Make sure you stretch really well before and after running. Also, make sure you stay hydrated.

Taking long strides is better. Taking shorter strides involves more work and will tire your body out faster.

Eat healthy, run with people who challenge you, do appropriate workouts of different kinds to focus on things that would be appropriate for the type of running you do (like speed, endurance, hills, pace, muscle development, etc.).

Hold both arms up and stretch them to the opposite side from the cramp/pain. Manage your breathing well and don't overwork yourself!

Check out the wikiHow article on How to Prepare for a Race .

Pace yourself while running so you do not get tired as quickly. If you run a little slower, you will not need to breathe heavily as quickly. Gradually increase the distance you run each time to increase your endurance.

That depends on your gender and your event. For example, if you're male and want to make it in the 1500m you definitely have to run it in under 4 minutes.

Research the times of competitors in similar races and compare them to your own. This should give you a decent idea of where you might place in a race.

If you're trying to lose weight, the best diet for running is low carb or vegan.

Stretch more. Not stretching can make you pull a muscle or even break a body part, which can lead to surgery. Do deltoid stretches, touch your toes and also do planks and sit-ups.

The best thing you can do to get faster at running is to run. Do short, fast workouts, and long endurance workouts. Run alone and with running buddies. Run often.

Your stride or your sneakers may be the problem. You may want to look into getting inserts and do a little research on correct stride. You may also want to try running on softer surfaces like grass or a rubber track instead of concrete and pavement.

Listen to "Never Gonna Give You Up" by Rick Astley. It can really give you that extra strength you need when you're feeling tired.

Not exactly, although having longer legs can be a benefit. I'm not the tallest, but I always remember to take long, quick strides. Don't forget to breathe, as muscles need oxygen to function.

Some people find that lunges can be extremely helpful. It is best to do them multiple times per leg before and after running.

Just do your best. If you truly feel like you're giving it your all, just tune out the voices of others and focus on yourself.

You could sign up for a mile run, 5k's, 10k's, half-marathons, and marathons.

Something I love to do is compete against mates, or at least try to keep up with them. Have a running squad, that way you can catch up with friends and be pushed harder. Another thing I love to do is run in a lovely environment such as, beside the beach, in the forest, or anywhere you think is a lovely place. You might also like to listen to music while you run.

Start with 15 minutes per day and build up to about an hour. It will take weeks, so be sure to increase your time gradually so you don't sustain an injury.

You can definitely take a water bottle with you when you run. Make sure it is a relatively light one that is easy to carry. Another option is doing laps around the same loop and leaving your water bottle somewhere along it. Then, every time you go past that spot, you can get a drink.

It’s okay if you can’t run fast. Just try your best, and rest before the race. 200 meters isn’t very far, so practicing running a farther distance will help you prepare.