LOGGING KAYS AFTER A HARD DAY’S WORK MAY FEEL LIKE A STRESS-RELIEVER – BUT IT COULD BE SABOTAGING YOUR RUN.
THINK ABOUT THE last time you went for a run. What were you doing before it? Maybe you were waking up from a bad night’s sleep, or you’d just finished an intense project at work, or you’d spent the better part of an hour scrolling through Instagram. Though it may not feel immediately apparent, all of these things are mentally draining, and could be sending your brain’s fuel tank to ‘E’. Worse still, when you lace up for a few kays in this state of mind, research shows that your workout suffers.
A recent review of 11 studies published in the journal Sports Medicine found that when you’re mentally fatigued, your overall performance in endurance workouts and high-performance bouts – like a long run, or hill repeats – is negatively impacted. “We’re not able to continue to focus through the exercise session, because we’re tired from focusing so intensely prior to the workout,” says Angie Fifer, PhD, certified mental performance consultant with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.
This story is from the June 2018 edition of Runner's World SA.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2018 edition of Runner's World SA.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
FEUD FOR THOUGHT
As the Paris Olympics approaches, bringing healthy rivalries and lofty ideals to the fore, we shine a light on running's dark side.
WELCOME TO THE - GUT LAB
Between all of the social media 'hacks', the sensational promises and the scientific jargon, the path to better gut health can feel nearly impossible to navigate. Allow us to give you an insider's guide.
THE ULTRA GURUS
TAKING ON AN ULTRA requires both dedication and expertise. Here are three world-class experts to help you maximise your training, form and race-day mindset - and unleash the long-distance runner in you.
24 REASONS TO RUN IN 2024
How every step you take will change your life for the better this year.
ADVANCED HALF MARATHON TIPS
Expert advice on how to maximise your 21.1 potential.
YOUR BETTER HALF
Why - and howyou should run your best 21.1 right now.
IMPROVERS' TRAINING PLAN
Already have a half or two under your belt, and want to get faster? Here's how.
FIRST-TIMERS' TRAINING PLAN
Top tips, and a 12-week training schedule to guide you through your first half with a smile on your face.
READY TO START?
Thinking about doing your first 21.1km race? Our experts have the answers to your training questions.
MY RUNNING LIFE
ORDINARY RUNNERS doing EXTRAORDINARY THINGS