Run Walk Method

The run-walk method is a strategic technique used by long-distance runners and walkers and has been championed over the last 20+ years by noted runner, author and coaching specialist, Jeff Galloway. The popularity of the run-walk method has enabled millions of people of all ages, body types and skill levels to successfully complete their first long distance event. With practice, walkers can add running intervals to their training plan, and runners can add walking intervals to their training plan, and both will go longer and faster with fewer injuries. The key to successfully using this method in a long distance workout or event is to insert your walk breaks BEFORE you become fatigued.

In this short article we refer to the run-walk method as a strategic decision that walkers and runners can implement. Some walkers want to become runners or at least run more, and they can do so by adding short intervals of running. Many runners want to go longer and longer distances and they can do so by adding walk breaks (intervals).

While the run-walk method seems logical enough, it has not always been well received by a few running “purists” who did not want to be seen walking or identified with walkers.  However, the run-walk method has become very well accepted in the running community by enthusiasts and coaches alike, and the results are now in after 20+ years: veteran runners have been using strategic walk breaks to post personal best running times in long distance events.

Read more: Introduction to Run Walk Intervals