Coach the Run helps midlife runners improve their performance and reach their goals through personalised advice and training plans, with expert advice from London Marathon winner Mike Gratton. Join our mailing list to receive running tips, event details, discount codes, and more every two weeks...
Share
Runners Sleep β the overlooked training partner ππ΄
This email is all about running smarter and recovering better!
With under 60 days until London Marathon, we're looking into sleep strategies to aid runners' recovery, as well as the benefits of gentle yin yoga. We also look at 5k performance boosters to help you achieve your personal goals.
Donβt forget, βThe race is long and in the end itβs only with yourself!β
RUNNING TRAINING
How to run a faster 5k
Incorporating a mix of low and high-intensity training, as well as strength and cross-training workouts, can help you achieve your goal of running a faster 5k β whether itβs on a race day, or for a personal goal.
But donβt forget that it's important to stay consistent and gradually increase intensity over time to prevent injuries.
Kettlebell workouts and explosive exercises like plyometrics are excellent for building the strength required to boost your 5K speed.
β
We share our top tips in this article, plus you can download our free 5K training plans too!
Whether you're a marathon novice or a seasoned runner, we have a running training plan just for you.
β
βHoka Cielo X1 2.0 - A tip-of-the-spear product tuned for higher tempo pickups, the Cielo X1 2.0 is a must for speed seekers. Engineered with an aggressive forefoot rocker and ultra-responsive dual-density PEBA midsole with snappy carbon fibre plate, this pace-pushing road racer has been finished with a light, breathable upper.
For all our subscribers - the code will give you 15% off SS25 productsβ β
The code expires on 1st May 2025. SS25 products are current season items. In most cases, SS25 will be stated in the product name. For Nike products, SP25 and SU25 are included in the promotion. (Exclusions apply, including but not limited to Brooks, Coros, Garmin, Shokz and Maurten)
β
ASK MIKE
Ask the Coach: How much should you pay attention to your sleep?
Our head coach, Mike Gratton, was asked how important sleep is as part of training recovery. According to Mike, balanced recovery is key.
Here he shares how rest matters, but everyone is different, so itβs important not to stress perfection.
Typically, marathon runners generally require 7β9 hours of sleep each night. Quality sleep is vital in muscle recovery, injury prevention, and maintaining a strong immune system. As training intensity or mileage increases, additional rest becomes essential to combat fatigue and prevent overtraining.
Cramping is a multifaceted issue that presents challenges in scientific research. It is influenced by various factors and can be triggered by different mechanisms, with sodium levels being just one aspect. Certain runners may have a higher susceptibility to cramping.
RUNNING TIPS
Runners, have you tried salt tablets?
Packed with sodium & key electrolytes, they help replace what you lose through sweat, reduce cramping, and keep you performing your best during long runs. Get ready for the warmer weather this spring, why not give them a go!
Running's repetitive impact can cause muscle tightness and joint stress. In this article, yoga teacher, Anneke West shares her advice about incorporating yin yoga into your running regime.
Yin yoga offers unexpected physical and mental benefits β itβs not just about flexibility. It can be about body awareness and healing, and a transformative practice for runners seeking balance and recovery.
Many people today lead busy lives, trying to fit too much into their days. This often puts the nervous system in constant fight-or-flight mode, affecting them physically, mentally, and emotionally. Running is a great way to release tension, but it shouldnβt be the only outlet. A regular yin practice is the perfect complement.
β
β
Latest codes & discounts
β
HUEL Daily Greens New Watermelon Flavour - Spend Β£85 & Get an Extra 10% offA perfect blend of 91 vitamins & minerals, superfoods, antioxidants, adaptogens, probiotics and botanicals in one small scoop.
Coach the Run helps midlife runners improve their performance and reach their goals through personalised advice and training plans, with expert advice from London Marathon winner Mike Gratton. Join our mailing list to receive running tips, event details, discount codes, and more every two weeks...
Here's your Coach the Run fortnightly email Hi Reader, Marathon season is fast approaching, with London, Manchester and Edinburgh hurtling towards us! This week our focus is on what you can do before, during and after a marathon for maximum performance. We'll look at how to fuel yourself, stay hydrated, and ensure you recover quickly after a marathon. Trust your training and believe in yourself. You're capable of more than you know! RUNNING DIET What to eat to boost performance With proper...
Here's your Coach the Run fortnightly email Hi Reader, What do the best marathon runners have in common? They've prepared well throughout their training and cared for themselves along the way. With a week until Brighton and under a month until London & Manchester marathons, our head coach, Mike, shares the secrets of tapering when it comes to marathon prep. We also share our tips for achieving the right mindset and building physical strength to run for longer. Plus, you can delve into our...
Here's your Coach the Run fortnightly email Hi Reader, This week you can learn about how to prevent a common running injury β Achilles tendinitis. Ouch! We'll also help you master marathon endurance strategies. And share how long it should take to run a kilometre, depending on your ability. We hope you enjoy reading our advice about becoming a smarter, more resilient runner! Your goals are worth every drop of sweat! Run with purpose, run with heart. RUNNING RECOVERY How to avoid Achilles...