If you’ve ever finished a race, if you’ve ever learned a language, you’ll know that both activities require focus, planning and stamina. Our running and learning experts have plenty of tips for aspiring students who want to go the distance with Lingoda.
How can you best prepare for the Language Sprint?
- Enter the event: Sounds obvious. Of course you have to enter. But don’t leave it to the last minute! The Lingoda Language Sprint, like any popular sporting event, has a limited number of places. But worry not, there is always a waiting list!
- Choose a schedule: Any runner will tell you that choosing a training schedule that matches your experience is critical. So it is with learning a language. Lingoda makes it easy to pick classes that match your language level.
- Got the right kit? Swap trainers, fitness trackers and lycra for a laptop, good internet connection and a quiet space to concentrate. Making sure you’re prepared, and you’ve got the gear will ensure you get the best possible language learning experience.
- Warm up properly: Before a class (or a training run), you need to make sure your brain and body are awake. Runners will spend 15 minutes or so stretching and jogging. For optimum learning, we recommend a brisk five minute walk and your coffee of choice before the class.
- Get there on time! No sprint runner would arrive at the start line with a minute to spare. Same with your language learning class. Make sure you’re set up and online at least ten minutes before the class starts. Check you have a good connection and confirm your microphone and speaker settings.
…Coffee and a quiet space to focus – essential to get the most from your language class!
- Warm down: The right post-run routine prevents injuries. With Lingoda it ensures you get the most from your session. Give yourself 15 minutes after the lesson to digest the class and make a note of the key learning points from the session.
- Refuel for energy: An hour long class, every day, for two months is hard work. Runners carry gels to refuel. You should make sure you have a snack or two before the class. And make sure you have something to drink during the session. You’re going to be doing a lot of talking!
- Train regularly: Running and learning are habits. Find a time of day that works best for you and try to book your daily class around this time. We recommend booking at least seven days ahead to get the classes that match your schedule.
- Prepare your apologies! It’s going to be a busy two months, whether you’re running every day or learning a language. Rehearse your excuses for when you aren’t able to make a social event. The sprint comes first!
- Share your experience: When you’re in the middle of your training, or your learning, getting support from fellow participants is vital. Lingoda has organised a Sprint Facebook Group where participants can share advice and learning tips.
Bonus tip to prepare for the Lingoda Language Sprint!
Celebrate in style! Congratulations, you made it! When you get to the finish line, after two months learning, make sure you celebrate big time. And don’t forget to tell the world. You can leave a review of the Lingoda Language Sprint on Trustpilot.
Lingoda Team
This article was produced by one of the in-house Lingoda writers.