Hills

Why is it important to train hills?

Easiest answer, if you are trining for a race, there is a very good chance there will be hills during the race. The more you train and understand your bodies response to the challenge of hills and the way to properly run downhill, the better you will be prepared. If you are not racing, then it is a great way to build up your strength.

Keep in mind, 10-20 minute of a hill workout equates to almost an hour of consistent running. Hills can seem easy at first, however it goes from easy to “harder” very quickly.

The best way to attack hills is on repeats, with a set distance or time planned ahead, with rest.

Running hills will also help your flat running as it will build muscle in your legs. Overtime, doing the same repeats, the hills will get easier and it will help in defining your stride.

Running downhill is an eccentric type exercise, working a different set of muscles and muscle fibers. Practicing this helps you strengthen your slide. Be careful as injuries are more likely when running down here as athletes tend to move faster then they are accustomed to, and extend our their stride to a level they have not training.

As always, the more training, the better the result.