Training for longer runs like marathons requires dedication and preparation. This includes starting to run longer distances than you normally do. If you are preparing for a 10k or a 15k, but you're used to running only 2-3 miles every day, it’s time to start preparing yourself for these longer distances. For beginning runners, or those who have only been running a few miles at a time, longer distances may seem like a scary thing, but they don’t have to be. Even if you are not preparing for a marathon, longer distances can have great improvements on your health, and also improve your time for your shorter runs. Longer runs will help build the stamina that you need, and help you understand what your body will require if you decide to go for that Ultramarathon one day. The longer the run, the more opportunity your body has to break down fat, improve healthy circulation and blood pressure, and increase lung capacity. There are, however, a few things you need to know before you start this process, and we’ve scoped out a few of the basic elements you’ll need to familiarize yourself with for running longer distances.

Image courtesy of Richard McMillan from freeimages.com