I'm interested in why some days running is much easier than others

[cornishgirl54]

I know that some days are easier than others and I don't worry if I struggle with a run one day that I found easy a couple of days before, I'm just glad that I'm doing it at all. But I am interested in the days when it find it easier, purely because I'm interested to know what the factors are that make such a big difference. I'm very much a novice at running but my guess is that when it goes well it's largely to do with good hydration - but the time of day also seems to affect how easy it is. I would be interested to know what tips other people have for making it easier?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Everything going on in our lives can impact on our performance as a runner. Restedness, hydration and nutrition are at the top of my list of variables that need to be optimised to enable enjoyable running.

Of course there is a never ending list of other factors that can affect us as well, some of which we can control and some not. Our psychological state is inextricably tied to our physical state, so depression or tension can impact negatively and a buoyant mood positively. It is not recommended to run while angry, as there is a supposed increase in the likelihood of heart attack.

Then there are the external and environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, pressure, pollution, pollen, routes, gradients, uneven ground, wet and slippery surfaces, etc.

Elite athletes in training for specific events will try to control all aspects of life, down to tiny detail, in the search for optimum performance.

While we cannot hope to emulate that degree of control, I am always amazed that it takes some runners a very long time to realise that they are never going to perform to the maximum if they do not attempt to prepare for their running.......... many never get the message.

Bolting on hard physical exercise to your life is going to impact on your life and all that other stuff will also affect your running.

Your mention of hydration is good example. Despite the constant advice on here to hydrate adequately, some seem to believe it is optional, whereas in fact it is absolutely crucial for good running performance and is one of the easiest variables to optimise.

When we know in advance that some aspect is below the optimum, we can adjust our own demands and expectations, for instance run slower or maybe not for so long.

It is a fascinating area that, with awareness, you can go on learning about forever and a day.

[cornishgirl54 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Wow, that's a great answer, thank you so much. Lots of things to think about!

[Ant50 Graduate]

I tend to run on a Mon, Wed and Fri morning, with two days rest over the weekend and as a result I have noticed that my Monday morning run is always the easiest, so maybe that extra bit of rest really helps. Bad runs alway seem to follow days when I have been sat at my (home) desk all day, not moving much. I also found that I run much better early in the morning as opposed to on an evening when I am already starting to feel tired. Not that it makes getting out of bed any easier! 😀

[cornishgirl54 Graduate in reply to Ant50]

Thank you for your thoughts on this, particularlly as I can see that you've done a great deal more running that I have as you're a graduate. I really like the idea of morning runs but I have a feeling that they go well - or really not! - depending on what I've eaten. If I don't get up early enough to eat and then leave it for half an hour before I run, I feel I'm running on empty.

[Ant50 Graduate in reply to cornishgirl54]

Even seven months after graduation I still consider myself a new runner, so not that much experience I’m afraid. I don’t bother with breakfast just water, I just get out as quick as I can in a morning, then eat when I get back. Guess you could always try having a banana before a run, as might give a bit of an energy boost without feeling like you have eaten a lot?

[cornishgirl54 Graduate in reply to Ant50]

It's really interesting to hear what other people do. I always worry about having nothing before I go out in the morning but I'll try the banana route! Thank you. This is such a good forum.

[Ant50 Graduate in reply to cornishgirl54]

Let me know if it works !

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to cornishgirl54]

I have dropped the banana for my morning runs and feel no different.

I still drink 500ml before leaving the house.

[Blackshoe76 Graduate in reply to Ant50]

I do the same Ant50! But started adding the banana in week 7/8 before the run and of course a glass of water.

Early morning runs are much easier for me than the evening attempts, I agree with you on this one 100%.

[cornishgirl54 Graduate in reply to Blackshoe76]

I'm going to try a banana versus non-banana experiment and see how I get on with early morning runs! For me, I think the hydration question is possibly the most important factor but I find it all really interesting.

[Blackshoe76 Graduate in reply to cornishgirl54]

The banana thing may be more psychological than phisical 😁. When I have it I know I have enough fuell to keep me going for 30 min 😆 works especially on bad running days.

[cornishgirl54 Graduate in reply to Blackshoe76]

That's a very good point. Hard to disentangle one from the other but I agree that anything that you gives confidence has a very positive effect.