Speed Is King: Speed Training Like Usain Bolt

Everybody wants to run faster. So why is it that some people are naturally faster runners than others?

In reality, there are two reasons. First, some people are born faster than you. Plain and simple, their joints, muscles and bone are connected in such a way that they are just plain more explosive than you. For those of you that are genetically gifted in this category, good for you! You are a step ahead of the game.

However, if you feel like your natural speed is below average, rest assured: there are literally hundreds of ways for you to increase your speed.

The second reason that some people are faster than you is because they simply train harder. This is a point of contention for some experts who claim that there is only so much you can do to increase your natural speed.
These experts are only about half right.

When training for speed, or for anything athletic, we encounter diminishing returns. This is when you get great results at first, but 'plateau' quickly, ending your streak of improvement.

The best way to avoid diminishing returns, especially when training for speed, is to introduce new workout routines, or especially new training equipment to your training regimen. This way, your body has a harder time getting accustomed to your training, and it improves faster.

This is not a miracle formula for running faster instantly, however, introducing speed training equipment to your normal routine will not only make your results more tangible, but will make them come faster as well.

What do I mean by speed training equipment? Here are some possibilities:

- Jump Rope: if you are any kind of athlete and are not jumping rope every day, you should start right now. Jumping rope not only converts fat mass into lean body mass, it also improves your agility, reaction time and explosiveness. Take 10 minutes a day and jump rope before you go to work or school.

- Weight Training: strength sometimes equals speed. If you are not lifting weights currently, you should sign up for a gym membership (one of the more expensive options, I know) and begin working on leg strength and power with squat variations. 3 sets, 5-8 reps, practice good form and don't hurt yourself.

- Parachute Running: Using a running parachute will multiply the speed and strength gains you get from a normal track workout. Also, they are pretty low-cost and portable. I definitely recommend picking one of these up.

There are countless other options, but I am a big proponent of these three, especially for speed training.

Check out Coach Mac's Speed Training Equipment [http://www.runningparachute.net/speed-training-equipment/] page for our more information, advice and the best speed training equipment on the market.
Remember, consistency isn't everything, it's the only thing!

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