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Historically, mankind has always run. In modern times, however, changes in lifestyles has meant
that national participation in endurance running is at a low ebb. Why should we run therefore and
what are the benefits of endurance running if done regularly in an organised programme? The
following benefits are why youngsters should be encouraged to run.
• Improved cardio-vascular health - reduces risk of cardiovascular disease
• Improved respiratory function - greater use of oxygen
• Improves lung capacity and lowers blood pressure
• Improved muscle mass - fitter, stronger muscles
• Improved bone density - fitter, stronger bones
• Weight loss - weight at expected levels
• Improvement psychologically - feeling of euphoria
• Enjoyment - feeling of achievement
• Can slow and reverse the effects of aging
• Sleep better at night and have more energy in the day
• Emotional effects - runners can feel elated and stimulated
• Fitness levels improve - healthier lifestyle, including diet
Endurance running needs to be started early and progressions - both in the number of sessions,
the volume of miles and intensities - should be gradual over a number of years relative to the
youngster’s age, maturity and ability. The information that follows in this resource shows how,
through deploying varied, enjoyable and stimulating team and individual running activities such
as Run England 321, relays and assorted team activities youngsters can get involved in endurance
running.
Once the foundations of a running programme are in place, the booklet then shows how to develop
a systematic, progressive training programme for the emerging athlete taking into account their
maturity, training environment, the number of years they have been training but above all the
athlete as an individual.
This comprehensive resource shows how a novice or beginner can develop themselves as
endurance runners not only to improve their health and well being but also to become good
competitors. Endurance running is beneficial, healthy, stimulating, worthwhile, rewarding, easy
and cheap to do.
Dave Sunderland
England Athletics National Coach Mentor Endurance Team 2010
INTRODUCTION
SCHOOLS ENDURANCE PROGRAMME
AN INTRODUCTIONTO
ENDURANCERUNNING
SECTION 1
8
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WEB COPY
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