Training Novice Runners to become FreeRunners

The running journey continues, albeit in different forms as I train novices/ amateur runners and of course training is learning as you learn everyday from the novice and other runners in the group.  A few points about training runners which are relevant in today's context of running marathons are given below:-

Training Runners

Training is an activity which I have started enjoying as it is mostly about "giving" your energy to the new runners who need to learn about "form" and "breathing" and correct techniques to avoid running injuries and also to build good habits which keep them in good shape always. Running is an activity which needs constant focus and attention on the "posture" while running. Training runners involves a lot of personal attention while they run and most of the times, you have to run along and point out the correct way to run, especially for beginners who have not run/ played sports earlier in their lives. This has to be completely personalized as each runner has a typical form and you need to be highly observant to know where the change is required to make their running more efficient. Constant pointing out and making them realize and experience the correct posture is key to their improvement. 

FreeRunners has a unique method of doing this through the 5 day week training program which includes Tempo Running, Interval training, Trail running with hill repeats, Slow Running, and Strength Training followed by a weekend Log run. Each of these activities are focused on form improvement and muscle strengthening which are the basics for running strong.  Consistency in attending all the 5 days training is important for proper training of the muscle groups and form improvement. During the training, a lot of emphasis is given on improving breathing techniques, which needs to be practiced 24x7 and not only during running. The same is true for form, and if you notice most of the old group members, you will be surprised to see the similarity in form of all the runners. The entire training program has a very strong focus on "form"and "breathing" always which results eventually in getting a good "speed" also as the muscles get strengthened and running becomes more efficient. 

The biggest challenge here is in the consistency of runners and when you miss any day of training , it is like a "snake" and "Ladder"  game and you have to re-start/ re-correct. Old habits die hard, and so does form as we always tend to return to our old ways especially when we are not mindful of it. 

To summarize, Running training is about consistency, and complete focus on posture and breathing, at all times.

Join the FreeRunners group which operates Tuesday to Friday and Sundays at two places: Kedari Ground in Wanowrie, and Opposite DPS school at Mohammadwadi/ Undri. Contact the following to join: Jeetendran Nair at 9421038552 or Naveen at 8879105249.