What You Need To Learn About the Science of Running

Running may seem as normal and regular as anything that we do. Human beings have been running for a long time, for different purposes in different periods in time, and in the time that we live today, running is mostly only done as a form of exercise or movement. Running is second nature to some people, and some others may need to put in more effort to be able to run well and enjoy it. Why does running seem relatively easy to some and seem difficult to some others? What are some things that professional runners know that regular runners don’t?

Approaching any activity that we do scientifically significantly changes the way we do it and the results we derive from it. Running is no different. Learning the science behind running will help you understand various aspects of it that you probably have been ignoring, and in turn, may be affecting your performance. For instance, forces have a significant effect on the ability to run. Gravity pulls us down to the ground, our muscles work to propel us forward, and air drag slows us down. This and some physiological factors of running that you may not know may be holding you back from being the runner you want to be.

Read on to understand some scientific terms related to running and their meanings, to help you increase performance and endurance and minimize injuries.

VO2 max and Genetics

VO2 max is one of the most important factors to understand when you learn about the science of running. It is the maximum amount of oxygen that the body can absorb and use during exercise. When looking to increase aerobic fitness, improve endurance and efficiency in performance, one should look at maximising one’s VO2 max or the oxygen uptake. While this can be done through training, VO2 max is to a large extend, determined genetically. Increasing aerobic fitness also depends on the genetic makeup of the aerobic muscle fibres. Hence, understanding the science behind how genes affect the way you run can help increase running endurance.

Lactate threshold

Understanding lactate threshold and training accordingly is another technique that professional runners do to improve their running efficiency. As opposed to the largely genetic nature of VO2 max, the lactate threshold in a person can be increased with a good personalized training programme. The lactate threshold is a point at which the body produces more lactate than it can absorb or expel. This usually happens during high-intensity exercises, like running. When this point is reached during running, the runner is fatigued quickly and will have to slow down. Having a higher lactate threshold implies that a person can continue to run at good paces for a longer time, without being exhausted.

Understanding the meaning of lactate threshold and using it to maximise endurance is important.

Do Running Shoes Cushioning Cause or Prevent Injury?

If you have been a runner for some time now, you may have inevitably used or at least heard of other runners using cushioned running shoes. Ultra-cushioned running shoes have become extremely popular among regular runners in the recent past, though they were originally used by professional runners.

As a result, major players in the shoe industry have rolled out countless number and varieties of padded shoes for running, citing various benefits. The perks being claimed were also backed by the health industry which only increased the acceptance of cushioned shoes.  Cushions shoes are said to increase comfort during your run, aid performance and prevent running injuries. While runners vouch for it increasing comfort, whether cushioned shoes really prevent injuries is a question that many runners and health experts have been pondering upon of late.

Given the wide acceptance and fame enjoyed by heavily padded shoes, or ‘maximalist’ shoes, whether they aid in preventing injury or cause more injuries is a debate worth having. Read on to understand some misconceptions that you may have about both heavily padded shoes and minimalist, thin-soled shoes and in causing injuries.

Some of the arguments against using heavily padded shoes directly attack the claims that they make in injury prevention and impact reduction. In reducing joint impact, studies reveal that cushioned shoes only make runners feel as though the impact is reduced, because of the shock absorption that is offered by the padding. In reality, experts say, that this leads to runners being careless with their landing, because of the reduced sensation of the impact felt. This can lead to long-term impacts on the joints and tissues because when the foot placement is done without considering the impact it will have, weight distribution is disrupted.

 Further, thickly padded shoes are naturally more restricting and rigid. This translates into your muscles being able to do less work as compared to wearing minimalist shoes. Arguments against maximalist shoes say that this property of cushioned shoes leads to the deterioration of muscles. Naturally, weaker muscles are more prone to injury.

On the flip side, experts say that avoiding cushioning or padding altogether is not the answer either. The solution to the possible ill-effects of maximalist shoes is to find an adequate amount of padding. Most studies that argue that padded shoes do not prevent injury speaks specifically about heavily padded shoes. As opposed to this, a moderately padded pair of running shoe will help prevent injury, along with other benefits that cushioned shoes offer.

The comfort that cushioned shoes offer is unparalleled, and this is especially important for people that have previously sustained injuries. It is also known to result in higher performance, as a direct result of being more comfortable than minimalist shoes. Maximalist shoes have proven to reduce injury in high-performance runners, who almost always run a longer distance at a faster pace. The plush and cushioning effect provided by maximalist shoes absorb impact forces much more efficiently than minimalist shoes or going barefoot and hence reduces the risk of injury by a significant margin.

Having established all these facts and findings, it has to be said that no two people have the exact same experience with cushioned or non-cushioned shoes. The importance of trying out multiple varieties of shoes and choosing the one that serves you the best should be reinforced here. So, don’t hesitate to take your time and be patient with trying and testing new shoes.

ASICS Curved Rocker Soles for smooth transitions – Metaride and Glideride

The design of a running shoe can come in many forms, each of which has an impact on the user’s experience. A number of companies have released shoes with a “curved” or a “rocker” configuration in recent years, which rolls the wearer’s foot forward as they land.

The idea behind this sort of construction is to make running feel easier and more effective. Before you consider buying a curved rocker soled running shoe, you must understand how it works. The rounded form of a rockered midsole, like that of a rocking chair, aids in rolling the runner forward across their stride. Think of how a rocking chair works and how it needs less energy to be tilted than a normal chair. The energy-saving property of rocking chairs is also derived from this simple motion.

ASICS India has introduced two such curved rocker soled shoes, to make running significantly easier and effortlessly longer – the Metaride and the Glideride. Both these shoes are the perfect ones for you if you are looking for running shoes that can make every step of the run more enjoyable and easier for you. Each of these shoes promises to bring something different and game-changing to your training. Read on to decide which one is best for you.

ASICS Metaride is the ideal choice for you if you are looking for shoes that will help you train for long-distance running. It is made using many of the innovative technologies of ASICS, including the Guidesole, the Flytefoam and the Gel technologies. The working of these three technologies in the midsole of Metaride is what helps the runner feel less tired after a long run.

The Guidesole of the Metaride has a one-of-a-kind shape. It has a more curved shape than other ASICS models. This is what helps to save energy and keep the body going forward by reducing excessive ankle movement. In the heel, there are a couple of pieces of GEL cushioning to help withstand the force of foot hits. Two foam layers are sandwiched between the GEL cushioning. The firmer FlyteFoam Lyte layer is on top of the midsole, while the more cushioned and flexible FlyteFoam Propel layer is on the bottom.

The shoe features a knitted upper, and the great thing about it is that you don’t even really notice it because of its quality. It is very dense and highly breathable, has an extremely comfortable fit, and while there’s plenty of protection in the midfoot, there is still enough space for toe-splay in the forefoot. This shoe is a great investment if you are looking for something new and exciting in your running journey.

ASICS Glideride is a shoe that is based on the same principles as the Metaride is. While is a newer model,  is also built with the intention to help runners run for longer without ending up too fatigued. It comes under the ‘energy saving’ category of running shoes. This ASICS shoe that has a new style is a well-cushioned, stable, and energising shoe with a distinctly curved or rockered geometry and noticeably firm midsole/outsole chassis. This shoe is made to create a rolling experience with every stride you take. The GlideRide’s ultimate goal is to assist runners in running longer distances with less effort. This shoe also features the Guidesole technology, made with an innovative rockered sole design to create a landing zone that is incredibly shock absorbing. A firm layer of Flytefoam Lyte technology provides cushioning and structure, while a soft, bouncy layer of Flytefoam Propel technology provides a soft, bouncy feel to the sole. Glideride also incorporates the Gel technology that enhances cushioning in the heel for a comfortable feel.

There are no restrictive overlays on the upper of the running shoe, but it is protected by two internal underlays on the lateral surface and is lightly strengthened at the toe border. No matter how your foot reaches the ground, the GlideRide gives off a noticeably rolling trip that generates forward acceleration while in motion. The solid, curved midsole generates progressive momentum. 

Both Metaride and Glideride are great running shoes, especially if you are looking to run long-distance runs. Anyone who can appreciate the extremely smooth functionality and great cushioning both these shoes offer, will love them.

How Running Milestones Can Improve Your Lifestyle

If you have recently started running, you may already be aware of the short-term benefits that running may have been giving you. It is no secret that running is one of the best forms of movement there is, and undoubtedly one that is fun and enjoyable. Runners have been raving about the ‘runner’s high’ for a very long time now and if you have taken to running, you will know exactly how that feels.

Running Milestones has become a big thing in the recent past, and for good reason. Runners who have got into the hang of running as a regular activity, are always looking to hit milestones. Both incorporating running into your regular life and working towards achieving your 5k and 10k milestones have proven to be incredibly advantageous to the lifestyles of people. There are researched and proven benefits that running has, from the very first day.

You may have taken to running to improve your physical health- to keep your weight in check, to build sustainable muscles or to improve your cardiovascular strength. Running does exactly this and so much more for your physical wellbeing. Studies show that from the very first time you start running, your body goes through a natural process of adjusting its functions. In other words, your body tunes itself. It helps in blood pressure regulation, regulation of insulin levels and almost immediately gives your metabolism levels an enhancement. It increases your energy levels, pushing you to stay active and productive throughout the day. Running daily for just about 15 minutes can make a huge difference to your life, helping you to breeze through activities you were struggling to fulfil earlier. I could go on all day about the physical benefits of running.  But if you are a runner, you already know all these.

My way of adding value to this conversation is by attempting to educate you on more than just the physical benefits of running. Let us talk about how running improves the overall quality of life. The overall quality of life depends on not just your physical health, but a majority of it depends on your mental well-being. You could be your best self physically, with your target body weight or the biggest muscles in the room but that still does not say whether you are a happy person or you are mentally, at peace. At the end of the day, peace and happiness are what we are all chasing, right?

The mental benefits exercise in general and running, in particular, have are multi-fold. The very first time you run, you are bound to realize a change in your mood. This is why runners often tie up their shoes and disappear into the streets when they feel low. They say that it also helps them think clearer, and more effectively. Running often instantaneously puts one in a better, calmer state of mind. As you keep running and working towards achieving those milestones, your body releases a hormone called endorphin. These are chemicals produced by your body that help you deal with and relieve pain and stress.

This is just the beginning. Research reveals that people that suffer from mental health issues such as panic attacks and anxiety disorders have benefitted tremendously from taking up running. In the long run, running milestones help you make more controlled, impactful decisions in your everyday life. By helping to cope with the stress of everyday life and making dealing with the curveballs that life throws your way every day, the act of running improves your decision-making skills.

Running regularly and pushing yourself to attain running milestones are known to reduce the deterioration of cognitive activity. This is especially important once you cross the age of thirty-five. It helps prevent the degeneration of important brain functions such as memory, thereby reducing your risks in developing cognitive disorders.

Just like writing about the physical benefits of running, I could go on and on about its effects on mental health too. But we have covered the best and most important of them.

When it comes to running, having the best running gear never hurts. I have been a religious user of running gear from ASICS India. Just like the mental and physical benefits of running, gear from ASICS is bound to improve your quality of life.

Your Favourite Fitness & Running App- Runkeeper

The recent influx of running apps has been overwhelming. Running apps being the go-to for runners to track their runs, it can get confusing to choose an app that not only works effectively, but also provides accurate data. 

An easy way to track miles, elevation, distance, pace, and location, running apps is the best way for runners to understand and improve their performance. Well, runners are at an advantage when it comes to tracking the various specifications of their run.

Runkeeper – a running app from the fitness brand Asics is your go-to solution to not only track the various numbers associated with running, but additional specs provided by the app give it an edge over other running apps. 

How does Runkeeper work?

The very first running app in the market, Runkeeper has only gotten better over the years. Available for both Android and iOS devices, this app is free to use. However, some features are exclusive for paid subscriptions. 

The app uses the sensors and the GPS sensors of your phone to provide very accurate information about the different aspects of the run. This information helps you set a goal and improve your run performance. It integrates with almost all devices like smartwatches and other fitness trackers. It also has an option to connect with fellow running enthusiasts and friends. 

Here are some reasons why the Asics running app is the favourite and preferred by runners worldwide. 

• Ease of use

With an easy to use interface, the various features of the app can be used seamlessly. With almost all features readily accessible on the homepage and real-time tracking, this app tracks your run in real-time, giving you feedback as you run. 

• Customisable design

Highly functional design provides a smooth user experience across all devices. With customisable statistics, runners can choose the activity they wish to do. Exact statistics help runners improve their performance by showing improvements in pace and the steps taken in lucid graphs. 

• Set achievable goals 

Runkeeper provides the users with the option to choose the reason they are using the app. The reasons include options like ‘run more often,’ ‘run a race,’ ‘lose weight’ or ‘something else.’ Based on your reason, Runkeeper aids in setting an achievable goal. 

• Advanced subscription options

Runkeeper has an advanced subscription option called Runkeeper Go. An advanced level feature provides additional comparisons and training plans to help achieve your running goals and improve your performance. 

For runners to improve their performance, a good tracking app is a must. But an excellent pair of running shoes is also essential. A right shoe can boost running performance while minimising the risk of injuries. It also helps athletes maintain their feet health. 

Asics not only aids runners in improving their performance using the Runkeeper app but also helps runners boost their performance with their Asics running shoes. Designed with runners in mind, their shoes help all athletes, including runners, support their feet while helping them achieve their goals. 

Their innovative design provides a superior comfort level while running with their soft cushioned midsoles and preventing the feet from wearing out. Their advanced technology has enabled them to develop a shoe that provides maximum arch support, essential for runners. 

Asics has always put their best feet forward with a legacy of 70 years. Their history of consistent improvements ensures that runners can always expect unparalleled service and quality that will only boost their potential.

With these twin forces by Asics, runners can get their A-game on and reach new performance levels quickly and with ease.

Running Routines For Those On A Time Crunch

Rushing off to drop kids at school? Striving to meet the deadline at work? Still, have to buy groceries while you head back home? Where are you going to fit your running schedule? Unfortunately, not all runners can devote their life to running and have to sneak some time out to run. However, if you have time to put on your running shoes, you can make time for some running too.

Running Routines In Time Crunch

But what about the “Golden Rules” of running? The stretching, the particular diet, cross-training, strength training, the fixed gaps between diets, everything plays a major role. However, the head coach at Strength Running, Jason Fitzgerald believes that most rules can be broken in running, except for a few. Also, he clarifies that breaking all the rules at all times is not the right way to go about it.

So, if you are on a time crunch, we have some coach recommended running routines that you can pull off. So, get your running shoes ready and hit the track.

Investing in a 30-minute running routine can be beneficial if you know your deal. A time crunch athlete can make the best out of 30 minutes of running and if you can, manage this routine twice a day. Also, your sportswear and running shoes play a significant role in maintaining a good run. Hence, make sure you invest in good ones. ASICS sportswear is superior and will satiate all needs of your feet.

3 Minutes Hard Core Effort

If you have been running for a while now, going the high-intensity way will help you. Start with a 10-minute warm-up followed by 3-minute hardcore running and 30 seconds of walking or jogging. Repeat the running and resting part five times, and your running routine is set.

Try to do it on an inclined surface or treadmill. Also, if you are looking for a shorter routine, you can cut it down to three times.

Climb Up The Stairs

If you are on a money crunch as well, you can use the stairs as an alternative to the treadmill. Start climbing the stairs for 30 minutes and you won’t need to do more of anything else. This will help you burn your butt, quads, and hamstrings.

Also, you can do this routine when the weather is going mad outside as you can’t afford to skip your routine.

Run It Out

Thirty minutes of uninterrupted running has been a go-to option. Whether it is a jog in the park to clear your head or a sprinting through the track, you can tear your legs in this 30-minute window.

It is essential to be consistent in whatever you do, and for that, you will have to take good care of your feet. And ASICS running shoes will take care of that.

2 Minutes On – 1 Minute Off

This time crunch workout needs 2 minutes of hardcore running and one minute of rest. When you can’t figure out a routine for yourself, this one will help you. It might not be the best option for most, but it gets the job done. It doesn’t matter if you’re on a track or treadmill, you can make it worth the while by pushing yourself.

If you’re new to running, it will take time to be consistent throughout the two minutes, but you’ll get there.

Rest It Down

If you have been pushing yourself too hard, maybe it’s time you give your body a little rest and just go for 30 minutes of stretching or yoga. It is vital to recover from the running fatigue, and taking a day off in a week will help you balance it out.

It will also help you be more productive throughout the day.

If you have finalized your running routine, you can now move ahead and choose your running shoes and running clothes. It is important to pamper your feet and ASICS footwear collection will serve all options. You can choose your running partner and achieve new heights in your daily running target.

The Impact Running or Fitness Has Had on Your Life

It’s rather an ordinary story, but I feel it will make for a good read if you are someone who’s recently got interested in running. This is the story of how daily running changed my life for good. And why I think it’s a great way to take care of our body.

Why I Started Running

Having born and brought up in metro and getting caught up with work in the corporate world soon after college took a heavy toll on my health. As I continued to focus on my work, by the time I realized that my health was suffering – backache and neck ache, laughable stamina, and a growing paunch – I had lived five years of my adult life without much physical activity.

It took a doctor’s consultation for me to finally take fitness seriously. As you know that running requires more mental strength than anything else, I woke up one day, wore my slippers, and just went out for a stroll. No plan, no alarm, no schedule. I just walked out.

That was the start of my fitness regimen, which I followed up with daily strolls. Those brisk walks eventually turned into running. I would keep a fixed timing for my runs and stick with it regardless of my schedule. I even went for runs during my annual vacations.

The first positive sign of my runs came after four weeks when I observed my ability to stay fresh even after eight to ten hours of work on a computer. This was like a surprise change in me even by my own standards.

Getting into Serious Running

It is only after I began running for a few weeks that I bought running clothes and shoes.

Because I know how lazy I used to be and because wise people suggest that we shouldn’t invest in a tool unless we know we are going to use it fully, I bought my pair of running shoes very late in my informal running career. But when I did, I chose the best.

ASICS was an obvious choice, but I did explore the market before settling with the GEL-NIMBUS range. I still own its 22 road running series which is still going strong, two years later. The same goes for all my running attire, including miscellaneous sportswear.

The Impact Over the Years

It goes without saying that investing in running gear made me more efficient. I could cover more kilometres during my sprints, get rid of my backache, and most importantly, see myself being more active throughout the day. Running for just 30 minutes every day for the past 24 months has helped me reclaim my health, which was deteriorating at a pace greater than I could imagine.

My friends and family have also observed this change and continue to ask me the secret. And I keep repeating this story to everyone who asks me. I find great joy when some of them come back and tell me their versions, which is almost the same as mine. Every single time.

ASICS Running Outfits Which Never Defeat You

Are you just starting on your running journey?

Or maybe training for your next marathon?

Well, there’s not a lot that you need for a run; you can just put on an old T-shirt, shorts, and trainers, and you’ll be good to go. Having said that, choosing an outfit that is exclusively designed for the sport can not only make you look better and feel comfortable but also enhance your running performance and experience. After all, you wouldn’t want to be dripping in sweat and sporting a rather nasty chafe after every run. Right?

Here are some of the most essential ASICS items that’ll make the perfect running outfit for you:

Running Tops/T-shirts

If you’ve been running in your old cotton T-shirt until now, you’d be surprised by what the proper kind of sportswear has on offer. Unlike cotton that soaks up all the sweat and moisture, and leaves you wet and stinking, a technical running T-shirt or top is engineered using lightweight, breathable, and sweat-wicking fabrics like polyester or elastane to help you stay dry and keep your body at the right temperature on the run. Mesh panels in high-sweat areas (back and underarms) are a plus!

Running Tights/Shorts

Your running tights or shorts must be comfortable enough to let you move freely during the run, and help you focus on your pace without worrying about the sweat, chafing risk, or storage. Whether you choose a full or ¾ length tights or a pair of easy breezy shorts made in sweat-wicking, stretchable, and lightweight fabrics. Make sure they are the right fit and offer some kind of storage like a small zip pocket or no-bounce pockets for items like keys, cash, ID card, and phone.

Running Shoes

While it might appear like a challenge, buying the right pair of running shoes is actually quite simple. First and foremost, make sure that the shoes are the right fit, leaving no room for movement for the heels and keeping the toes splayed out. Another vital thing to remember is that the pair needs to suit your running style. For instance, a shoe with lightweight foam sole and more padding is ideal for running on roads while one with a good grip and stiff rock plate is suitable for off-road trails.

Other Running Accessories

While the right kind of top, bottoms, and shoes are the basics when it comes to a running outfit, you do need to reflect upon what else you might need depending on the time or purpose of the run, the weather, or your requirement. For your assistance, here’s a quick checklist of other running gear:

Sports Bra – must offer high level of support for women

Running Socks – helps prevent blisters and even supports faster recovery

Running Jackets – for extra protection from cold, wind and rain

Reflective Gear – an absolute must for night-time running

Running Headphones – must have a secure fit and be sweat-resistant

Running Belts – for carrying essential gear like phone and keys

You can also choose to carry your own water bottle/hydration pack, gels/tabs and energy bar, other than accessories like sunglasses, baseball cap, sun protection, fitness tracker, and fanny pack.

The Best Gift Ideas for Runners

THE TRENDIEST AND SUPER COOL GIFTS FOR RUNNERS

Running is healthy and trendy. The easy and affordable accessibility to running gears has made running more like a part of anyone’s daily regime, just like having breakfast.

Leading sports brands like ASICS India, have revolutionized the common individuals’ fitness goals and aspirations. So if you have a friend who is a runner, or you want to inspire someone to start running, or just want to give yourself some comfortable running gears, then you are spoilt for choices.

Top Gifting Ideas for Runners

Whether a beginner or a professional, most runners require a few basic gears that are common to all. You can choose from these ideas for the best option that suits your needs.

Running Shoes

Running and shoes are almost synonymous with each other. For a good running stint, having a good pair of running shoes is a must.

While choosing your running shoes, you must bear in mind a couple of basic factors:

#1 Comfort is something you cannot compromise with.
#2 The size should be just right.
#3 Choose running shoes that can adapt to most surfaces like a track or park.
#4 Go for lightweight running shoes.

ASICS offers a wide range of running shoes for men, women, and kids, keeping in mind these important considerations. The new range, Sportstyle from the house of ASICS offers great comfort, multiple colour and size options, and great pricing, making it the perfect gift to give. You can also choose from the tried and tested Gel shoes from the same brand.

Running Clothing

More often than not, we put on just about anything while we are out for a run. It is time to change that. It is important to wear clothes that do not stick to your skin or cause irritation while running. This ensures that you are focused on the job of running, and not taking care of your clothes while you are at it.

ASICS offers everything under its clothing line from jackets to tees, shorts to tights, and sports bras and tank tops for women. Choose the right material so your runner friends can’t get enough of this gift.

Fitness Tracker

Most runners like to monitor the statistics to improve performance outcomes. The ASICS Runkeeper is the perfect gift to count the calories, track speed and distance, and to set fitness goals. Your friend is sure to love and cherish this gift from you.

Running Accessories

You can also opt for the more common gifts like a water bottle, mobile pouch or ear pods. Although they are considered accessories and not basics of running gears, their significance is pretty high to runners. Small, yet powerful, these accessories will help push your runner friend to the next level of fitness.

Visit the ASICS Store Today for the Best Gifts for Runners

ASICS India offers shopping at your fingertips. All its products are available online with multiple payment options and easy deliveries. So go for it and choose the next best gift to give away to all the runners around you. 

What is Your Favourite Post-Running Cheat Meal?

Everyone likes a cheat meal. Whether you are a professional runner or an aspiring model, it is normal to have the urge to cheat on your diet. You may even very well deserve it sometimes, especially if you’ve maintained a record running streak. 

A cheat meal can be anything: a smoothie with an extra load of icing, your favourite ice-cream, pineapple and vanilla cake, or a cheeseburger. It completely depends on your craving and your mood. But it is rather interesting to observe that there are a few cheat meals that are more common in India. There are meals and foods that most runners, athletes, and fitness experts in the country prefer over everyday foods like the ones mentioned above.

So, let’s take a look at some of the most common cheat meals in India. Which one’s your favourite?

A Loaded Chicken or Vegetable Burger

Blame it on the fast-food giants in India or the advertisements they run on huge billboards for runners to see and curse under their breath. But chicken burgers (and their vegetarian counterparts) can easily be counted among Indians’ most loved post-run cheat meals. Just one burger is usually enough to answer that craving you get around weekends.

Plus, a burger doesn’t do much harm if you get back to your regimen immediately. Moreover, a chicken burger is loaded with vitamins and proteins, which can help you maintain your body’s nutritional requirements. The same goes for burgers made with other meats.

French Fries

Another fast-food favourite among Indians, these deep-fried sticks of potatoes also manage to make fitness freaks weak on their knees. While the potatoes are good (fiber!!!), the deep-frying part is what you should be wary of. If you are a runner, prefer homemade fries instead of getting them from a food corner. We know you may not get them to be sharp and crispy, but hey, a cheat meal doesn’t have to be perfect.Get that dose of carbs and fat and enjoy your fries.

Anything Chinese

Chinese food has a special place in most Indians’ hearts. It is also rightly one of the most common post-exercise cheat meals. Whether it’s manchow soup (healthy!!!), chowmein, or triple Szechuan fried rice, slurping on magical Chinese gravies is a kind of self-pampering in itself. You need these experiences too, just to enjoy life a bit more freely.

Pizza by the Track

Snigdha runs four kilometers every day. But she cheats on her diet by enjoying her favourite fast-food, pizza, once or twice a month. She’s been doing it for years now and always insists on loading it with tomatoes for balance. 

Just like she prefers top-quality running gear from ASICS (she owns the GEL-QUANTUM Infinity black shoes), she gets her pizzas only from her favourite and trusted local café. She believes in going local instead of depending on international brasseries like you-know-who.

Hot Chocolate After Hot Running Sessions

This is a given, but surprisingly, hot chocolate is even more popular than milkshakes because it can be easily made at home. Get some sugar-free cocoa powder and milk and you are good to go. You can also control the sugar intake by adding only a touch of it to stay healthy even when you are cheating. It’s a win-win!

The same goes for chocolate cake and ice-cream. Although, to be frank, vanilla ice-cream seems to be the crowd favourite. And we can’t disagree.

So, what is your favourite cheat meal? Do you have any special food that helps quench your craving and give you essential nutrients? How does ASICS help you get back to running after your indulgence? Let us know in the comments below.