I came across a motivational poster that I knew was written with me in mind.
You’re not going to get better at running hills if you walk them.
Right? Love ’em or hate ’em hills are an amazing tool to build endurance, strength and yes, speed. When I feel like walking a hill, I think of that poster. Remember you have to work for your goals. It’s so easy to walk up the hills. Too easy.
So I started adding hills to every single run. While my runs are generally hilly, I started throwing in a few hill repeats at the end of my run. It’s a great finish to a short 5K or 8K run. Near my office, I have a few options for repeats. It’s not sexy work but I can feel my legs are getting stronger. (It’s not feasible for me to go to the mountains every day so I have to makeshift my own vertical.)
By putting hill sessions in my training, I will reap the benefits. I love running downhill and I am getting stronger on the ups. Let’s be honest here. When I run Lost Souls and Iron Legs, I will not be running up every single hill. I am not that conditioned or strong. I know my body and my limits. Power walking will be one of the keys to my success.
TREAT YOURSELF
Anyway all these hills … and my calves are bloody tight. But good news! Terry posted this awesome stretch using a foam roller on her Facebook page. Below is a version from Kelly Starrett. I warn you it’s painful but it hurts so good! I really need the release because my legs do take a beating. I sent the video off to a few friends and they had immediate results too. I love the online running community.
Happy trails … and happy hills.
Oh man… I love/hate that stretch!! 🙂 My motto this summer is to embrace the hills too!! I’m also trying to practice power hiking them, because we all know that there will be A LOT of hiking during IronLegs and Lost Soul!!!
It is the perfect time 🙂 Keep at it!
I’ve made no secret of my dislike of hills! but you are absolutely right–you only get better at hills by running them!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home recently posted…Book Review: First Ladies of Running by Amby Burfoot
I especially hate when there is hill day! Hill day really hurts especially after a long distance training day! I find that foam rolling after hill days to help greatly in recovery.