Evidence from research and visual observations indicates that an increasing number of individuals of all ages and fitness levels are motivated to improve their active lifestyles by taking up running. In the excellently researched Smart Running, Jen and Sim Benson help runners of all levels cut through the jargon.
The key aims of the text are to develop confidence, motivation, and dedication with building appropriate and customised training plans. The authors use their personal experience as lifelong runners, as well as their extensive coaching and academic backgrounds, to guide readers through a range of key aspects of physiology, psychology, nutrition strength, and also fitness training.
Improve Confidence
The clarity of writing within clearly defined sub-sections enables readers to build skills to improve performance levels and fitness plans.
Taking up physical activity in the gym or out in the open can be focused on a range of perspectives. Including improving health, well-being, stress relief, strength and energy levels or reducing isolation.
A key feature of the text is how the authors skillfully transform readers from merely thinking about running to actually participating in the effective development of realistic training plans to improve confidence.
They highlight the core principles of training, such as balance, self-care and enjoyment, to promote participation.
The authors’ extensive analysis of key issues, divided into specific sub-sections, promotes knowledge, awareness and understanding.
Readers who are new to running, contemplating starting, or hitting a barrier will gain considerably from the text. Illuminating chapters on the effects of training, fuelling, and hydration, as well as specific individual planning and running techniques, will all stimulate interest, awareness, and performance.
A Positive Mindset
I was particularly enamoured by the section on “Theories of Sport and Exercise Psychology”. It analyses theories and practices of motivation and self-determination to protect ourselves from the inner voice or negative mindset.
This ability to shrug off disappointment and not become engulfed in self-pity or self-doubt is important to keep going.
The discussion on how to improve an individual’s self-efficacy by mastering vicarious experiences and using verbal persuasion and self-belief makes for insightful reading.
This aspect of promoting a positive mindset is relevant to players and coaches within all sporting activities. It is also positive for individuals facing the challenge of examinations and job interviews.
The key factors for those new to running are to ensure they have appropriate footwear, don’t attempt too much too soon and, above all, enjoy the “buzz of the experience” while also developing the resilience to take the rough with the smooth. It is important to “strike the balance” between running enough for meaningful improvement, avoiding burn out, frustration, or injury.
This excellently structured text will benefit runners at all levels. The authors skilfully offer clear, relevant and practical guidance to runners of all levels.
It is the ultimate guide to becoming fitter, stronger, confident and physically aware to maximise performance levels and enjoyment. Well worth reading.
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Author: John Morris for Love Wrexham Magazine
John is an FA coach. He has worked with young players at Fulham, Chelsea, QPR and Wrexham, promoting resilience, tenacity and self-discipline. He is currently a consultant addressing growth mindsets to promote sports, education, and business performance.
