Re-learning A Few Lessons On Long Distance Running

I found a very helpful article regarding long distance running written by Matt Frazier, a marathoner and an ultra-marathoner.

It is entitled "A Beginner's Guide to Long Distance Running".

To summarize Matt's main points:

• Run slower during long distance runs. You will run longer and develop your endurance.
• Run with shorter strides to minimize stress on your legs and feet and help avoid unwanted injuries.
• Use variety. Running with the same pace and intensity is boring. Have fast running days to improve speed and slow running days to build endurance.
• Incorporate speed work. This is more like the previous bullet point above. Only written just for emphasis! :p Who does not want to run faster and stronger right? Almost everyone. Question is, who is doing the necessary sacrifice, pain and discipline to do speed works?
• Nutrition. Eat right before, during and after the run. Do not forget to hydrate especially during hot weather.
• Be consistent in your improvements. A thousand miles starts with a single step. Actually, single but continuous steps. Be patient, be consistent and be determined to be consistent. It will pay off eventually.
• Happy running. What is the point of all your runs if you ain't happy? Besides, you won't last long doing something you ain't happy doing.

Personally, I love every point Matt made on his article. I may be stubborn enough not to follow everything he said, especially regarding nutrition, but being reminded of the basics is what I loved best. I loved running. The basic points flashes back the old memories of triumphs and pains. 

And that's why I am here again.

To fall in love with running. All over again. ;)