Running is a healthy activity that keeps your stamina and lungs strong. To run safely, learn about the best ways to prevent injuries while running
Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned expert, running is a great aerobic exercise that gets the blood pumping. However, the less experience you have with it, the more prone you are to injuring yourself. Check out a few of the best ways to prevent injuries while running to stay safe.
Give Your Back a Break
While it may not seem likely that you can hurt your back while running, the possibility of back injury is very real. One of the best ways to avoid this injury is to purchase proper running shoes that support your spine. Quality shoes discourage bad form that would otherwise strain the muscles of your lower back. Additionally, you can maintain good running posture by keeping your head up, your shoulders leveled, and your back straight. If you experience pain even after obtaining quality shoes and practicing good posture, make sure to see a doctor for your back pain.
Keep Your Feet Dry
Blistered feet is a common injury for many runners that can make running uncomfortable and even unbearable. Keeping your feet dry with proper ventilation prevents blister-causing friction. If you have especially sweaty feet, adding some talcum powder to your shoe can prevent excess moisture.
Stretch Beforehand
You can easily avoid the pain of pulling a muscle that wasn’t prepared for exercise. Having a good stretching routine at the start of each run prepares your muscles for the upcoming exertion. It’s important to ensure that your warm-up is slow and that it thoroughly works each muscle you’ll use when running.
More to the point, this stretching routine should be more dynamic than static. Work more on stretching your muscles through ranges of motion as they move, which improves your mobility. Pay very close attention to your knees and hips while you’re at it. This warm-up must keep the joints warm and mobile or you run the risk of long-term injuries like tendonitis. Those of you who already experience nagging pain in your knees or hips may be suffering from it already. In this case, stop running and get the treatment you need to prevent it from getting worse. Look into things like advanced cellular therapy for PRP injections - they’re great at treating inflammation and joint injuries.
Warm-ups are excellent for preparing your body to run, but they also help you spot the warning signs of injuries. That’s why they should never be skipped! Always listen to your body during a warmup as you’re stretching and doing mobility work. If it doesn’t feel “right”, hold off on your run for the day.
Running is a great sport for increasing your stamina and lung strength. However, many people injure themselves when they underestimate the simplicity of the sport and run unprepared. By considering a few of these ways to prevent injuries while running, you’re less likely to hurt yourself, and you’ll be able to improve more quickly.