How To Increase Your Running Speed with Interval Running

Want to increase your running speed? Then you need to add some interval running to your running program.Interval running, which is also known as track work or speed work, is a type of training that is focused on improving your running speed. Experts have turned to this high-level intensity training because of its scientifically proven results. You can also incorporate this running workout into your program to improve your sprinting. Want to know more about this type of running training? Then read this article.What Is Interval Running?Interval running is when you run faster than tempo running. So, faster than your lactate threshold. This means that you will get heavy legs when you do intervals. Intervals are not exactly an all-out attempt, but definitely not far off the mark.How Can Interval Running Help You?As a distance runner you would normally concentrate more on endurance. You do your easy running, your long runs, etc.Interval running serves a different purpose. Intervals help your body to provide more oxygen to your muscles. This is great, because the more oxygen your muscles get the further you are able to go and the more you can increase your running speed without having to stop due to exertion.What To Consider When Doing Interval RunningInterval running is quite intense. So, a day of intervals counts as a hard day. You will want to take a day of rest after it, or at least take it easy with a shorter recovery run. The beneficial effects of your interval workout will be reduced if you do not follow the appropriate hard/easy approach to your running.Another thing to consider is that you warm-up properly before starting your intervals. Contrary to popular belief, there is not a lot of evidence to suggest that running stretches before your run are good for you. stretching the muscles, especially when they are cold, can cause tears and pulls, so you will want to avoid that. What you need to do though is start off with about ten minutes of easy running. This will sufficiently warm up the legs for the strenuous workout that is about to follow. After your intervals are done, make sure you finish with a few minutes of easy running and then do some running stretches as part of your cooling-down routine. Stretches after your running workout are fine. They help the recovery process and have been proven to help reduce the risk of all kinds of injuries.Interval running is a powerful key to increasing your running speed. Added to your running program it is sure to provide you with the boost necessary to get your running to a new level. It has been scientifically tested and proven and should become part of your running arsenal today!