My running has been bad this year. Tips? Comments?

[calin]

I'm a student and an athlete. I've been running pretty well for the past two years, getting PRs (personal records) at many of the races I competed in and not having too many injuries each season. However, this year has been stressful for me, what with a heavier load of school work, less sleep, and trying to focus on my academics to get into a good college. I am wondering, is there anything I can do to improve my running and racing? Beginning this track season, I started running with the fastest group on my team but I have not improved in times and, in many cases, have actually slowed down for my mile time.

Any tips on what I can do to become a better runner and have a better season? Thanks in advance.

[wynn]

I am only a distance person for one season (winter-XC ski) but a hugely important thing is your diet. Focus on vegetables and non-fatty proteins. Soy is good, but in some people it slows down their thyroid. Also, make sure you stretch a LOT, both before and after practice.
But the most important thing is, academics always come first, unless you are good enough of an athlete to make it your career. Most coaches are flexible when it comes to school and taking a little time to catch up. So talk to your coach, and if they give you a hard time about having to do more to be the best, you have to make the judgment call yourself. But just relax; stress is the biggest enemy here. Lavender tea helps unless you live in a place like, say, Florida.

[jorian23]

start off slow and then pick up pace after more practice