We all want to run faster. Whether you have a race, want to PR a certain distance, or just impress a new running club. There are a lot of reasons to want to perform your best when lacing up your running shoes. So today I’m here to help, with 3 scientifically proven ways to run faster today. That’s right! These three science backed techniques and tips will have you running fast right away. So enough with the small talk, let’s get to the tips!
3 Scientifically Proven Ways to Run Faster Today
Increase Your Salt Intake
There is a lot of debate on how taking salt while running will affect your performance. With many people swearing by salt pills and other thigh salt running fuels. I know I am one of them. And there is a good reason for this. In a 2015, study scientists from the Exercise Physiology Laboratory at UCJC tested triathletes in a medium distance event. One group was given 3 doses of salt pills with the goal of replenishing 73% of their salt loss. While the control group was given sports drinks replacing roughly 20% of their salt loss.The athletes that took salt pills vs just sports drinks average a 26 minute better time. With many running and biking their fastest times. If you are doing a shorter / mid distance 5k or 10k+, make sure to take in extra salt 20 minutes before your event.
Listen to Music
Have you ever had that song come on and you just feel like you’re flying with zero effort. Well you’re not alone! And you can harness this super power to run faster today. In this European study from multiple institutes they even took it a step further. Having a group of runners listen to their preferred music while running specific paces (not on tempo with the music). And compared it to them doing the same workout without the music. They found that the music not only improved all of their performances. But also had no effect on their ability to stay on their pace. So get some headphones and get a playlist ready to set your next PR.
Cool Your Body While Running
It’s no secret that athletes perform better in cooler weather. And study after study have proven that dispersing heat and cooling the body’s core temperature during exercise will increase performance. But a lot of runners don’t fully take advantage of this. Also, a lot of people don’t know that cooling certain parts of your body works better. According to one study, cooling your face, neck, and torso provided the greatest cooling factor. So make sure to toss some water on your head and neck before leaving the aid station, it will help.
Conclusion – 3 Proven Ways to Run Faster
If you’re looking to run faster. Before your next race make sure to:
- Take more salt. At least 70% of what you are losing.
- Listen to music you like.
- Keep your body temperature low by cooling your face, neck, and torso.
There you have it! 3 scientifically proven ways to run faster today. All three of these are affordable, and easy to implement if you plan ahead. If you have any questions let me know in the comments below.