I can tout the benefits of running hills until I am blue in the face, but it won't make running those ascents any easier. One thing that does, though, is focusing on your arms. As you're trudging up a hill, don't focus on your feet, but on the steady rhythm of your arms. Your feet will follow the pace set by your arms. I learned this little trick from the shoe expert at my local running store — yet another reason to shop for shoes with the experts.
Have any tips about running hills you're burning to share? Join RunningSugar, where the conversation is all about running.
Source: Getty
Kurt Geiger
Good tip ! I hate hills but love what they do for my running !
1Great tip! Trying this out tonight!
2That is so true. I ran a 5k across the Brooklyn Bridge and focusing on my arms really helped get me over the inclines on both sides. Also, chanting to yourself helps.
3Don't look too far ahead! It makes the hill seem less ominous. I live in the mountains of Asheville. We know about hills! (As I'm sure you do in San Francisco!)
4Keep your body perfectly vertical, so you're not leaning forward. Shorten your stride slightly and focus on lifting your knees. Don't try to accelerate uphill. Stay on the balls of your feet. If you're in a race, the way to get ahead is to accelerate after you've crested the hill, when everyone else will be recuperating.
5Post New Comment
Please share your opinion with our community, but make sure it is on topic and follows our Community Rules. We moderate comments and prohibit personal attacks, threats, spam, lewd images, or the promotion of your personal website.