Start slow
- Pick one hard run per week at most to begin with; everything else should stay easy.
- Always jog 5-10 min + do a few dynamic stretches before starting hard efforts.
- Keep the total “hard” part short at first (e.g. 4x200 m or 3x1 min fast).
Keep it comfy
- Run the hard segments at a pace that feels like 7-8/10 effort (“I'm working but can finish the set”).
- Jog or walk for recovery between efforts.
- Stop the workout if your form breaks down; better to do less but good-quality work.
Pro-recovery
- Cool down with 5-10 min of easy jogging or walking.
- Take an easy day (or rest) before and after a hard run don't stack them.
- Sleep, hydrate, and eat well; that's when your body adapts and gets faster.