We asked five pro triathletes from the BMC-Etixx team to share their top running tips on getting ready for demanding runs, stretching, enhancing performance, racing and recovery. Here the
As the old saying goes: When in doubt, take it from the pros.
Running tip 1: the most important thing when getting ready for a demanding run
Liz Blatchford, pro triathlete:
“One thing I find very important when getting ready for a demanding run session is to be fueled up properly. That involves eating probably about 90 minutes before the running session so it’s not sitting too much in my stomach. Some complex carbohydrates. Nothing too high in fibre. That’ll get me through my running session.”
Running Tip 2: The Best stretch After Running
Bart Aernouts, pro triathlete
“I’m not a big stretcher but after a running session I make sure I stretch my calves because that’s where I tend to get tight.”
At the end of the video, Will Clarke shows his favorite glute stretch. “I do this normally in the evening when I’m watching TV,” he says. “It’s quite relaxing.”
Running Tip 3: Improve running with cross-training
Ronnie Schildknecht, pro triathlete:
“I think cycling is one of the best sports to improve your running. If you run a lot it really can wear you down. For example, if I run over a 80K a week I get niggles. With biking you can do a lot of fitness without the pounding.”
Running tip 4: How do you recover from an intense workout?
Romain Guillaume, pro triathlete:
“When you push super hard you have to fuel your body as soon as possible after the workout. The first thing I’m doing is I’m more focused to just fuel my body and get my body ready for the next workout. I think good nutrition and proper recovery, is very important. That’s first and then there’s stretching, massage, legs up… But first is the recovery shake.”
running tip 5: Key pre-race rituals for mental prep
Will Clarke, pro triathlete:
“Couple of hours before the start, I like to go away on my own and get in my own headspace and think about the race and think about all the little things that could go wrong. Hopefully when I come upon them for real then I’ve already been through them in my head. That’s important for me for getting mentally ready for the race and getting mentally ready for what’s coming up ahead.”
Running tip 6: a pro tip that every runner should know
Romain Guillaume, pro triathlete:
“I used to run super-contracted at the upper body. I was running like this. I realized that running on the treadmill helped me to run more relaxed. I would advise a lot of people, especially in the winter, to run once a week on the treadmill and try to be focused.”
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Please note that the information provided in the Polar Blog articles cannot replace individual advice from health professionals. Please consult your physician before starting a new fitness program.
