5 Running Tips to Improve Performance

5 Running Tips to Improve Performance

Published June 16, 2021

There’s some great deals from some of our retailers too including Feel voucher codes, Hoka One deals, The Sports Edit voucher codes and more ...

This blog is well timed with both new and experienced runners running more than ever before. With lots of running events now scheduled and going ahead I have personally investigated how I can improve my performance, not to mention nailing those Strava segments so I thought I would share some of the tips I have learnt along the way.

1.Joint health and mobility for runners

Nutrition is key to aiding and improving running performance, particularly joint supplements. Ihave been using Feel Joints Supplements for 4 weeks now. Feel Joints are 100% plant based and suitable for vegans. I took these daily in the lead up (and continue to do so) to a half marathon I completed on Exmoor last weekend.

Feel Joint Food Supplement

Having tried a lot of joint supplements including the quite common cod liver oil these feel way more advanced. They are designed by neuroscientists and have Longvida® Optimized Curcumin which has been Clinically Proven to alleviate symptoms of conditions including knee osteoarthritis when taken for 90 days or more. One of the things I particularly noticed about Feel Joints was that they helped me feel a bit more flexible.

Feel Joint Tablets Packet

Running is very erosive on the joints so a joint supplement is a must, and I will continue to take these, plus there’s a great Feel deal on these Joint supplements. They have a 20% Feel voucher code. Plus if you subscribe to any Feel multivitamin products you can get up to 50% off with the Feel Subscription. Visit our website for more information on Feel voucher codes and supplements.  

Feel Joints Supplement

2.Choosing the correct running trainers

With so much choice when it comes to choosing running trainers and so many different shapes, sizes and styles it is even more difficult than ever to choose the correct running trainers. There are hybrids for trails and roads, pure off-road trail running trainers, racing flats, racing spikes, cross country spikes, road shoes, and fell trainers.

Do you like a cushioned running trainer? Or do you prefer a responsive trainer? Do you under pronate or under pronate when you run?

Due to the complexities of individual feet and the choice available it is always advisable to opt for a good brand and get a trainer that offers a trial. I have recently invested in a pair of Hoka trainers, they seem to be taking the UK by storm now although they have been around for years.

I opted for the Hoka One One Clifton 7 which is apparently the best Clifton Hoka has produced. Hoka reviews refer to it as the most stable shoe ever, maximum impact reduction, added bounce, I would agree with all of these comments! I love my Hoka’s, I bought mine with full peace of mind with the Hoka 30 day free flight test, which basically means you can run in them for 30 days and return them if they are not for you.

The only thing I wish is that I had got the wide fit as these do come up slightly narrow, while not noticeable on short runs up to around 10K I do notice them on 15k and half marathon distances, they rub my toes but that said they do not affect my during race performance so I am more than happy with these. And I have my eyes on a pair of the Hoka Speed Goats for when I my next coastal trail half marathon in October.

Hoka voucher codes don’t seem to come up so you’ll need to go for the 30 day Hoka 30 Day Challenge, you could end up saving more in the long run anyway because it is so easy to buy a pair of trainers and wear them only to notice they are not the correct fit!

Hoka One Goat Trainers

3.Running Hydration and Nutrition

Hydration and the right nutrition can make all the difference between a good run and a bad one. Let alone if you are doing a run that is more than an hour or more, it is at this point that your body starts to tap into your vital reserves and you ‘hit the wall’, refuelling before you hit this point is key!

For nutrition you will never catch me without my SiS GO Isotonic Energy gels, they are brilliant! Although not everybody gets on with them so try them on a short run first.

I bought a Salomon running vest that has 2 water bottles in, it is the comfiest thing ever and I wear it on all runs over 10k now. Plus make sure you are optimally hydrated before, during and after a run.

Salomon Running Vest

For the best deals on SiS GO Isotonic Energy gels go to Amazon. I also, bought my Salomon running vest there, I notice the Salomon Agile 2 Set Unisex Hydration Vest 2L Trail Running vest has 33% off on Amazon, it’s been reduced from £70 to £53.40 which is an absolute bargain! I have had mine for well over 2 years and I wear it on all runs over 10k.

4.Setting Achievable Running Goals to Improve Performance  

Set yourself up for success by putting in for an organised run that is achievable but that you will have to train for, nothing too much, start small and build up!

There are heaps of opportunities to take part in an organised run at the moment so why not take advantage of it?

But beware, a mistake almost every first runner makes art least once is being pumped with adrenalin and drive running too fast too early which can mean crashing and burning! Be realistic, set targets, start small and build yourself up.

The Tough Mudder is a really fun event to do! Even more fun if you do it with a group of friends. Programmes stretch from achieving that first 5k to running a marathon and more.

Discover the latest Tough Mudder deals today and book your race.

Woman in mud doing the Tough Mudder

5. Essential Clothing and Technology for Running   

Did you know that avoiding cotton is advisable for running in because cotton holds onto moisture that it’s exposed too during perspiration and wet weather! That is why you will often see ‘moisture wicking’ on the label of a lot of high performance sports wear brands these days.  

There are heaps of brands to choose the correct running clothing from, our favourites that have an offer currently include Proviz – they are offering a 10% off Proviz voucher code available at the moment so check it out and save!  The Sports Edit who give a 15% off Sports Edit voucher code when you refer a friend, and make sure you check out JD Sports sale with up to 50% off!

Having just run a brutal half marathon in Exmoor around the coastline with hills that are more suitable for climbing than running I speak with experience when I say preparation is key when it comes to running! I hope this blog helps you whether you are new to running or an experienced runner.

 

Miranda Coombes, mother of 2, passionate about the environment,

keen horse rider, marathon runner and a business owner

More blogs from Miranda:

6 Practical Gifts for Father's Day 2021

Happy Vegetarian Week 

Happy Star Wars Day

Do Weighted Blankets Improve Sleep?

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