If you’ve tried running with a soundtrack from time to time, you’ve probably discovered that it can help give you a kick in the butt and improve your ability to withstand the grind. Studies show that running with music at a tempo slightly higher than your default cadence will actually speed you up! If you haven’t given music a shot yet, or you’re looking for something new to spice up an existing playlist, here’s a song to try:
You’ve Got Time by Regina Spektor (168 beats per minute):
Try running to the speed of the beat. You’ll probably need to be on pavement or packed snow, out of town on a non-technical dirt trail, and/or going downhill to make it work. If you find it too fast, try shortening your stride (a technique that has shown to reduce injury).
And for those days that you want to have some entertainment but prefer to keep things mellow, don’t feel like having music pounding in your ears, and/or you’d like to multitask and learn something while out on a run, try a podcast or audio book! The “Science of Ultra” podcast has been feeding my need to geek out on ultra running research. Try the “Carbohydrates for Ultra Athletes” episode on your favorite podcast player and learn what maltodextrin is all about, how to optimize gastric emptying, reduce your risk of GI distress, and so much more…
Have a running song, podcast episode, or audio book you’re really digging on your runs right now? Share it with the community by leaving a comment!
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