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Can Running Make You High?

Can Running Make You High?

Nature’s incentive programme still isn’t fully understood. Greg Gerdeman, an assistant professor of biology, explains the current theory. 1/ Get In The Groove When you run past your comfort level (i.e. after 30 minutes at about 80% max heart rate), special cells...

How Strong Is Your Stride?

How Strong Is Your Stride?

Stanford University researchers analysed a single stride sequence to determine which muscles activate and when. We asked a trainer how to strengthen your weak spots to run your best. 1. Take Off Most runners don’t extend their hips properly because their legs don’t...

The 5 Toughest Trail Races in SA

The 5 Toughest Trail Races in SA

For all-over, real-world strength, skip the road and run straight up a mountain. These are five of South Africa's toughest trail races – are you tough enough? Summer Trail Series 23 October to 27 November 12-14km each. Gauteng Four races in the course of a month,...

Run Wild

Run Wild

Maybe it’s the views. Or the sheer space around you, empty and vast. Or the rain, and the mud, and the rocks and the steepest rock faces you’ve ever seen, or the dark, and the feeling of being absolutely alone. Maybe ultra trail runners are just mad. Who else but the...

The Secrets To Getting Fitter? Kick Your Own Ass. And Start Today

The Secrets To Getting Fitter? Kick Your Own Ass. And Start Today

Muscular glutes make you stronger and leaner all over. In fact, a great rear can even reduce your risk of injury. Want to seem taller? Tighten your butt, stand up straight, and amaze all your followers. Bonus: you just fixed your posture too. Bulk up your backside –...

Want To Win That Medal? Lift More Metal

Want To Win That Medal? Lift More Metal

Race coming up? Heavy lifting twice a week can improve your VO2 max. Runners in an Italian study saw a 6% VO2 max boost using this tactic. That strength, plus better mechanics, can enhance your running economy and cut injury risk, says PJ Newton, founder of Strategic...

Become A Better Runner In 5 (Not So) Easy Steps

Become A Better Runner In 5 (Not So) Easy Steps

Fartlek is a funky name, but this training technique is essential for boosting pace, and you can do it anywhere. It’s Swed- ish for “speed play,” meaning you vary your bursts of speed. Do this: first, do a 1km warm-up, then start your intervals. You’ll be able to push...

Why Run? It’s Good For Your Brain

Why Run? It’s Good For Your Brain

Take it from these four brainiacs – running regularly will improve your memory and your mood, and boost the growth of brain cells. The Atomic Physicist “I run six times a week first thing in the morning. Afterwards I’m energised: I’m more spontaneous and I’m more...