It is not difficult to improve your running technique, although it is hard to bring into practice. After all, it is hard to kick habits, so you might have to do a bit of “unlearning” and go through a period of adjustment before you actually get used to your new way of running. You will most likely get to about 81-83. Elite runners do about 180 steps per minute. So, how do you get to 180 steps per minute? It will require a lot of practice. One of the ways to train this is by doing strides, short burst over 60 to 100 metres in which you concentrate on proper form and quick turnover of your feet. People usually tend to do these at the end of their easy runs. What you can also do is run with a metronome that is set at 90 or 180 beeps per minute and then try to follow the beat. Frustrating at first, but you will learn to take “lighter steps” and eventually improve your performance. Imagine how much faster you would be if you could do an extra 10 to 20 steps of the same stride length each minute!
If you want to run properly, you need to have excellent core stability. During your running, in order for any force to be transmitted from one leg to the other your pelvis must remain horizontal and rigid. In this regard, the core is responsible for keeping the pelvis in position. This horizontal position is essential for efficient force to be distributed. You can maintain core stability by just paying attention and concentrating on good posture. This is important whether standing, sitting or active. Apart from your running program you may want to spend some time doing cross-training like Pilates to strengthen your core. Swimming is also an excellent sport that will make your core stronger as well as provide you with some cardio benefits.