Should I start a running streak?

If you’re part of running culture, you’ve heard about the streak running. Streak running is where a runner commits to running a minimum distance every single day– be it on a road, indoor track or treadmill. In the U.S., those who have signed up for this challenge even have a group: The United States Running Streak Association. Their idea is to run at least one mile every day, no cheating. Many haven’t skipped a run in decades.

Should I become a streak runner? 

For those considering making streak running their new goal, there are many things to consider. Just like any other running goal, there are positives and negatives and it’s not suitable for everyone. It’s best to do a short trial before committing long-term. For anyone new to the sport, streak running definitely shouldn’t be attempted until allowing the body to adapt to running.

The good

There are benefits. Many runners who have problems committing, have a daily debate on whether or not to go. When becoming a streak runner, that choice is already made. Tiredness, weather and busy schedules can’t play into it. Also, streak runners often keep competitive. Think about it, there’s no making up for time off and if you’re a streak runner, you’re always fit.

The bad

Sometimes running one mile can be much more challenging than it should be. The reason? No rest days! Recovery is a huge part in becoming a better runner. Your muscle tissues and nervous system need time to recover. Running is stressful on the body– you’re putting stress on the joints, increasing the heart rate and asking a lot of your muscles. All of those can adapt to the demands, they just need time. Plus, it’s in the hours and days after a workout that those systems make the necessary improvements. With streak running, there is also an increased likelihood that the athlete will end up with a case of overtraining syndrome.