Sara Hall's Unique Training Hack: Turning Recovery Miles into Sing-Alongs
Professional runner Sara Hall has a unique strategy for tackling her easy runs during marathon training. Her secret weapon? Music, specifically singing out loud while running. This clever technique not only makes her recovery sessions more enjoyable but also helps her maintain a steady, manageable pace.
In an interview with Runner's World, Hall shared her approach, explaining how singing helps her gauge her effort level. She believes that if she can sing at altitude, she's running at the right intensity. While her voice may not be musical, the act of singing serves as a reliable indicator of her pace.
But Hall's approach goes beyond just singing. Her running playlist, similar to the one she uses during marathon builds, is a diverse mix of 25 songs spanning various genres. From chill Ed Sheeran tracks to Eminem raps, it's tailored for easy days, quality workouts, and long runs. The playlist is a testament to Hall's versatility and adaptability as a runner.
However, Hall's method is not about carrying a tune; it's about conversational pacing. She emphasizes the importance of being able to hold a conversation while running, indicating that if you can only manage a few words, it's time to slow down. This conversational pace is crucial for recovery runs, ensuring you don't push yourself too hard.
The article also mentions Hall's recent success, winning the master's division at the Boston Marathon. This achievement further highlights the effectiveness of her training methods, including her unique approach to easy runs. By incorporating music and singing, Hall has found a way to make her recovery sessions more enjoyable and productive.
In conclusion, Sara Hall's innovative approach to easy runs, combining music and singing, is a fascinating strategy for runners. It not only adds a fun element to training but also provides a practical way to monitor effort levels. While it may not be for everyone, Hall's success and her willingness to share her unique methods inspire runners to explore new ways of making their training more enjoyable and effective.
