Run Like a Soldier

When you think of being tough as a runner, most people envision a marathoner struggling through the final mile and pushing his body toward the finish line, or they think about the last turn on an Olympic track as the world's best milers run for gold.

However, what most fail to realize is that, while those scenarios certainly exhibit strength in the face of adversity, the idea of it being truly tough is left to be argued. So, if you are searching for an innovative and historical way to broaden your training, a chance to model yourself after the toughest men and women in the world, look no further than the military.

Yes, that's right, run like a soldier. Although you're probably thinking that soldiers will never win a race, understand that their training isn't to create such a situation. Instead, they prepare for stamina and strength, to legitimate ideals required in battle. Try integrating a few soldier workouts into your plan to see toughness. Use the basic description that follows as a guide.

First, set aside 45 to 90 minutes of time to run, and plan on running about seven minute pace. In general, that pace is one that allows you to hold a labored conversation while running, so make a list of topics, grab a partner, and hit the road. Use the time to catch up, discuss, or simply gossip.

Next, once you have done this style workout a few times, begin to add weight to the training. Wear a pack on your back and do the run, clearly mimicking the soldiers and their heavy 40 to 60 pound gear bags they lug wherever they go.

Remember that at the close of these runs you'll feel tired. Maybe not exhausted or entirely spent, but fatigued nonetheless. Yet you can grab a banana and sit in a lawn chair to recover. True soldiers would have to un-sling their weapons and enter combat. Kinda puts it in perspective. Use this workout to bolster up your "tough" factor while completing a challenge. We all know they do!