Running help?

Question

Hi, I'm 13 entering 8th grade, in the begining of the year we run the mile and we run it again at the end of the year to see how much we've improved. Last year I came in last place with a time of 9 minutes something, both times, it was really embarassing!! I'm not over weight, I'm just weak. Do you have any tips on toughening up before school starts again? And do you have any tips for me to use while I'm actually running?

Answer 1

Completeing the mile itself is a good very first step.

One of the ways I started improving my time was to run longer distances first to build up your stamina. Try running 3 times a week beginning at one mile, then increase it to a mile and 1/8th the next week and so on until you get to 3 miles.

Then to improve your time, I'd give an swimming technique we were taught to improve our time swim. While you're running, try to keep up the pace of your strides by counting off the seconds as you run. For example, one count (One(step)-one (step) thousand(step)) should take about three strides. Then as you continue running, try to make your count a little faster, until you reach the time you want.

But really, the best advice, is just to get out and run. You'll end up with the same time if you don't do any running between the beginning of the year and the end of the year. so practice practice practice.

good luck!

Answer 2

So lets get this right, you finished last at under a 10 minute mile? You want to improve on that time? I would suggest that you start running, doesn't have to be everyday, but more then twice a year... I would work on getting up to 2 or 3 miles, you don't have to be fast, just finish it. You'll see both your legs and wind will improve with a running program. Start at a comfortable pace and pick it up along the way as you feel comfortable. If your getting out of breath right away your going to fast, slow down. Keep track of your time, see if after a couple months your not moving that time down. Come race day try not to get sucked into running with the fastest kids, just run your race at your pace... Maybe, a 10 minute mile is as fast as you can go? Everyone is different. I'm an old guy and I wish I could run a 10 minute mile.

Answer 3

Start running the mile right now. Run part of it at a sprint- maybe 5 minutes worth towards the start, then slow down into a comfortable pace to finish it up. 9 minutes really isnt horrible, its just not great. But if you start running it now on a daily basis, and keep pushing to go a little faster a little longer every time you run it, you'll get your times down in no time at all :)

Answer 4

you should run 5 days a week and play a lot of sports. Increase your running distances every week. If you run a mile this week, make it 1 mile and a half the next week. You'll see a difference.

Answer 5

Your problem is that you only run twice a year, no wonder you don't do well. Try running more often, like once a week. Actively participating in other sports will also help your overall fitness. make sure you eat properly, drink milk and get enough vitamins ( fruit/vegetables) this will also make you stronger. Good luck!

Answer 6

i have the same problem as you. i dread it when we have to do running at school! we have to do this beep test thing to see how fit we were last year and i came last it was sooo embarrasing. but im a lot fitter this year. i still hate running, but i just go brisk walking every other night because it isnt as excausting as running is and that has helped me get fitter. when you are runnung rememebr to take deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth, they will help you not get tired as quickly. and dont make the mistake of chatting as laughing with your friends while you are running like me! good luck!!

Answer 7

well im 13 and i can run a 9 min. mile. well, you can get better shoes, practice running everyday and x-ercise.

Answer 8

Run every day!