Most people don’t run at their top speeds unless someone’s chasing them. But here’s a novel idea: “Practicing running faster will make you faster,” says Matt NolanOpens in a new Window., an RRCA-certified running coach and master instructor at Barry’s BootcampOpens in a new Window. in New York, NY. Sprint workouts, or short, hard efforts followed by easy recovery periods, actually help you become a better runner at all paces and distances. That’s because “they train the body to recruit and develop fast-twitch muscle fibers, build muscle, improve heart rate and overall caloric efficiency,” says Nolan. Plus, the more comfortable you get working at these high-intensity speeds, the easier they’ll start to feel. After just a few weeks, you’ll be surprised how much easier it is to hold your balls-to-the-wall sprint pace for longer than when you started.


When you’re doing these sprint workouts—just once or twice a week—make sure to leave enough time to warm up and cool down before and after…