How to Become a Faster Athlete

Becoming a faster runner is one of the main goals of any athlete in any sport. Running faster gives you a competitive advantage over your opponents and is one of the most important factors in successful athletic performance. While there is no single method to becoming faster, there are a number of things you can do to improve your athletic ability and increase your running speed.

Instructions

    • 1

      Run a mile to find out what your normal running pace is, then set a goal for how much you would like to improve on that. Shaving seconds off a mile time is a difficult process, so make realistic goals.

    • 2

      Build up your speed gradually to prevent injury. If you are running multiple miles at one time, improve on your average mile time during each session, even if it is just a few seconds every time.

    • 3

      Run hills to improve your muscle strength. This increased strength will allow you to run faster while on flat ground.

    • 4

      Start a weight training program. Leg exercises in the gym will increase muscle strength, which will eventually allow you to run faster and will help to prevent injuries.

    • 5

      Do leg exercises, such as squats, leg lifts, leg presses, calf raises and hip abductors.

    • 6

      Take yoga classes. Yoga promotes flexibility and helps to prevent injury by increasing your range of motion. Increased flexibility also allows you to increase your stride, which in turn will improve your overall speed.

    • 7

      Run as hard as you can for short distances in waist-deep water to improve overall muscle strength and speed.