When preparing the body for long distance running exercises, a runner will usually perform warm up exercises just before the race. The period preceding the race might entail the runner doing warm-up exercises of another kind that are focused on getting the muscles ready for the stress that they will be under for a considerable period of time. A runner will generally warm up with a shorter run right before the race that is performed until some sort of perspiration is produced by the body.

Most long distance runners will train very vigorously throughout the year. Since they will be running races of 20, 30 miles or more, they have to hone their muscles and prepare their internal framework for the pounding that it will receive during a race. The runner could spend a considerable amount of time regulating their diet intake to achieve the maximum amount of energy levels that will be needed to win such a race.

A long distance runner will be very aware of what type of hydration levels will have to be calculated and maintained on a day-to-day basis. The saturation levels of all parts of the body will be directly affected by the time schedule at which the runner introduces water into their body. When this schedule is altered due to ill health or the long distance runner taking a day off to rest, the ability of the body to process water is thrown off and might not kick in while running a long distance course several days afterward.

A runner will learn to gauge how their body handles changes and adapt their running form to produce the right amount of energy and staying power that could lead them to victory at the finish line. When training for long distance runs, it might be necessary for the runner to change the number of hours that are devoted to sleep, or make changes to their diet that will ensure that they have all the right components in their system that will give them the right amount of energy.

A long distance runner will wear lightweight clothing during a race. The shirts will protect the body from the sun while ensuring that the body does not lose a significant amount of moisture by exposure to the heat for extended periods. A long distance runner will be accustomed to sweating because it is one methods that the body has for cooling off when stressed. A long distance runner will take advantage of every water station on the route to replenish fluids lost by sweating.

A long distance runner will also use running shoes that will lessen the stress placed on joints in the legs and feet. Most professional runners will invest in custom fitted shoes equipped with built-in arches that are made to support the arches in the feet. A long distance runner will develop a running style over the years that allows the body to move comfortably and for longer distances. A long distance runner will maintain awareness of all parts of the body while racing because there are hazards waiting caused by dehydration that could cost the long distance runner their life.