Learning how to relax to improve running performance and reduce injuries

"In all activities of life, the secret of efficiency lies in an ability to combine two seemingly incompatible states: a state of maximum activity and a state of maximum relaxation." -- Aldous Huxley

Studies show that relaxation can improve running performance and running economy. According to Wikipedia, "Running economy is a measure of how efficiently a person uses oxygen while running at a given pace."

At the end of a six-week training experiment using relaxation techniques, runners had lower heart and ventilation rates and lower VO2 consumption. Practice relaxation while running and you will be able to run further and faster using less effort than before.

What are the benefits of learning how to relax?

Staying relaxed while running can improve your running performance, but there are other reasons why runners need to relax.

A relaxed body promotes a relaxed mind. It is in this state that you can achieve "runners high" or you can "get in the zone." Many runners have experienced this flow state - the feeling of effortless running - the high that has attracted so many runners.

Other benefits of keeping your body relaxed:

• Removes stress, tension and anxiety
• Reduces risk of injury
• Keeps heart rate down
• Promotes recovery from injuries
• Slows breathing
• Strengthens immune system
• Increases your energy level
• Helps you sleep better
• Improves concentration and focus
• Increases positive thoughts and reactions
• Increases strength, endurance and coordination
• Empowers you to do better

Try Relaxation Exercises for Runners or a Relaxation Meditation!

How to relax your body

Start by lying or sitting down and breath deeply in through the nose and out through the mouth. Focus on your breathing for a few minutes and then tighten both your feet as much as possible. When the feet are tightened, focus on the muscles and feel the tension in them. When you release the tension, notice how relaxed your feet have become.

Continue to move up your body. Tighten and release the calves, upper legs, thighs, buttocks, stomach, back, hands, arms, shoulders, throat, jaw, face and eyes. Don't forget the jaw - it is a common place to hold stress. When you are finished you will feel totally relaxed - it is a great exercise to do before going to bed.

10 Relaxation Tips That Won't Cost a Penny!

How to relax while running

Do you remain relaxed when you are running up those hills? Do you feel any tension in your shoulders or chest? Become aware of how you feel at times when you are using more effort. You can still train hard and fast and stay relaxed at the same time.

Are you nervous about slipping and falling? If you do fall, the nervous tension you are holding in your body increases the risk of injury. Relax, so that even if you do fall, the risk of injury is greatly reduced. Also, remember to smile - it will relax your face.

Some runners use a breathing pattern to help them stay relaxed. Tension often creates irregular breathing patterns. While breathing in, take two steps. Then breath out and take two steps. This will help regulate your breathing and keep you relaxed.

Try talking to your body. Tell it to RELAX! This can be most beneficial when you feel a tightening in one particular area, such as the knee, hip, or IT band. Direct your focus to that particular area and consciously help it relax. Our bodies are very obedient and will listen and respond when we give them focus.

Here are some techniques which can be used to Help You Relax, as well as a chance to publish you own special relaxation techniques.

Related articles and pages:

Relaxation Exercises for Runners
Running and Meditation
Relaxation Meditation

Return From How to Relax Back to Running Psychology

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