Running injuries are not just for professional athletes. Every runner including professional runners knows that their lifestyle has the capacity of causing injuries. Not only are runners at risk from falling and harming themselves, but the sheer amount of muscles that they are exercising on a daily basis increases the probability of injuries by a substantial margin. Especially in the case of professional runners, who are training for a race, these individuals put their body through intense training which can easily be hampered through a small injury and they often need medical care to return to their training and sport.
Years of training and hard work can go down the drain by a severe single injury, as every intricate muscle in the body is used while running. Once these runners succumb to an injury, it will not only affect their training but will take a toll on their mental well being as well. Runners are always on the move whether they are training or not and any disabling injury can induce depression, because these runners are not used to a stagnant life style and their injuries will deteriorate the quality of their life. This is exactly why we have articulated a list of tips that are specifically designed to help runners prevent unnecessary injuries, these tips are as follows.
1. Prepare your body by walking
Every runner understands that they have to condition their muscles before they start running, especially individuals who are running after a substantial hiatus. One of the most effective ways of reducing the chances of injuries is by starting a walking program. Although intense cardiovascular activities such as swimming will condition the muscles, walking will strengthen these muscles and will help prevent an array of different injuries.
2. Adhere to a realistic training plan
The true art of running and conditioning the body requires impeccable attention to detail and a sensible training plan. Every runner should understand their body type and should implement a training plan that will not over exert the muscles. There are many different running coaches who have attained a high degree of knowledge regarding their profession and will only provide their clients with a tailor made training plan according to their physical traits.
3. Make sure you are wearing the right shoes to prevent running injuries
Never underestimate the potential of wearing shoes that are specifically designed for running, as wearing uncomfortable shoes can seriously harm your physical well being. You should find a pair that basically compliments your running style and feels comfortable; there are many specialist shoes out there that are available at different prices.
4. Perform dynamic stretches before running
Please never make the common mistake of warming up for a few minutes before you start your run. The moment you start running, a whole host of muscles are exercised and only an effective warm up can prepare these muscles. We would recommend incorporating static and dynamic stretching in your warm up to make sure that every muscle is prepared for the run. You can also use different strength training techniques to make sure your body is ready for the physical exertion that is a part and parcel of running.
After every run you should scrutinize your body and find out of if any muscle area is causing pain, remember immediate treatment towards the injuries is an expedited mode of recovery. If you have succumbed to any type of injury and prolong the treatment, then your body will heal at a slow rate. Furthermore seeking the advice of a physiotherapist will ensure that your training is conferring a benefit rather than being detrimental.
