14 Sep Running 101: Use the buddy system to improve your run

Whether you’re running on a treadmill or outside, little things can add up to big deals over the long haul. For instance, a skewed running form or the wrong type of shoes can add up to injury over many miles, or lack of motivation can cause an early exit when it doesn’t have to.
In order to get the most out of your training, Running 101 this week will take a look at different areas of the sport that will help serious runners. Today, we offer tips on how to have more fun running and stay motivated:
The social aspect of running can help as much as having the right shoes or stretching tour muscles in some cases.
* Try to find a running partner or partners. It can be more fun to work out with someone else. It’s also a lot tougher to miss a workout if someone else is counting on you.
* Join a local running club. Ask around or check with a local fitness or specialty shoe store to see if they know of any clubs.
* Enter a local 5K or 10K race, or if you’re really up for a huge challenge enter a marathon. You can obviously meet other runners at these events, too.
* Volunteer at a local race. There you can meet runners as well and get to know others in your community. You’ll appreciate and learn about the training others have put in.
* Be a good sport. Say thank you to race volunteers and thank you to family or friends who may come to watch and support you during the race. Also, thank them for supporting you during time you’re away training.

At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen’s blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people’s lives. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at aaron@athomefitness.com