There’s something I want to talk to you about. Something that, in my opinion, isn’t talked about enough. Something that runners who should know better use as a tool to shame people into believing they aren’t a runner. Something that I used to beat myself up about.
It’s stopping to walk on the run. Hands up if you’ve ever made one of the following statements to yourself:
• If I walk during a run, then I’m probably not good enough.
• The people who are passing me are running while I take a walk break. This is because they’re better than me.
• I shouldn’t even call this a trail run if I’m stopping to walk significant parts of the route.
These are normal concerns, but I’m here to firmly put them to bed. Walking during your run is a necessary part of what makes you a stronger, more resilient and powerful runner. Walking during your run is what will help you to run faster (if that’s your goal), and for longer distances and durations. And walking, as evidenced by even the top elite trail runners, is often the most efficient way to manage your strength, your pace and your energy levels while out on a trail run.
Wisdom from the greats
In November 2024, I interviewed an amazing elite athlete called Hillary Gerardi. She’s an inspiring person and a…
