In my previous post on"Self-help Vs Seek help,"I shared my transformation as a runner. A critical aspect of that transformation was the interplay between strength, stamina, speed, and nutrition.
During my self-help phase, I primarily focused on improving my speed and stamina. However, when I sought help from an expert, I realized the importance of strength and nutrition in achieving my goals. In this article, I will share my experiences with each of these components during my journey.
All four components are crucial, but not at the same time. Each component plays an essential role at different times until the final race, albeit in different proportions.
STRENGTH
I used to wonder about the role of strength in running. My understanding was that if I had speed and stamina, I should be able to cover the distance in the desired time. However, when I started training under an expert, I learned that strength is the foundation for a runner. Strength is not just for the legs but also for the thighs, tummy (CORE in runners' language), arms, and shoulders. The stronger we are, the lesser are the chances of injury.
STAMINA
Stamina is crucial for completing the 42.2 KM marathon distance. The beauty of stamina is that it can be stored, but you need a plan to spend it during a run. I used to make the mistake of running the first half very fast, thinking it would cover up for any eventualities in the second half. However, the body does not work like a calculator, and there is no meter for knowing how much stamina we have spent. Many times my second half of the race would be slower than my first half. With practice, I have learned how to use my stamina optimally for achieving my goals.
SPEED
While speed is important for shorter distances, it is less critical for marathon running, where endurance is the key. However, improving speed can help runners achieve their target times or finish the marathon more quickly. One has to train for the right speed for the goal one has set. Speed has an impact on stamina, and running the first half faster than planned can lead to no stamina to run the second half. Conversely, running the first half slow, thinking to pick up in the second half, can result in a lack of strength pulling the speed down.
NUTRITION
The most underrated aspect of running is nutrition. What you eat during the above three phases of training determines the final output. Each phase has different requirements, but one thing is common across all three phases – No junk. On days when I would have junk food like samosas, outside dinners, or oily stuff, the next day's training or running would be very tough. Three months before a race, I quit all junk food. Till then, it's a mix of cheat days and non-cheat days. Some of my friends are SUPER disciplined in their eating habits. They follow a strict diet running or no running, and it shows in their performance
In conclusion, the interplay between strength, stamina, speed, and nutrition is critical in marathon running. Each component has a significant role to play at different times. Improving each of these components is a continuous process that requires discipline, dedication, and practice.
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The right combination helped me achieve my best timing in running a full marathon.
The above concept I have applied in my corporate job as well as in my current role as a consultant. The equivalent of this is in business is
INSIGTHS - STRATEGY- EXECUTION - RESOURCES All the above four are critical for success in building a fit brand. We have to be adept at using the right thing at the right time in the right proportion.
What do u think is the equivalent of the above points in building a fit brand?
Match the following
1 Strength A. Insights
2 Stamina B Strategy
3 Speed C Execution
4 Nutrition D Resources
Do share in the comments section
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K N Parameswaran
Commercial Excellence-P&L- Acute Care- Chronic Care- Marathoner
Published • 13m
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