Runners have to deal with specific challenges each day as they run the streets, trails, or treadmills at their local gym. But many people enjoy this sport nonetheless because it helps them get or stay in shape, lose weight, and cope with the everyday stresses that life has to offer.
You’ll find many great reasons to begin running. Initially, your motivation might be strong and worthwhile. But after a little bit of time passes, your motivation may begin to wane. So it’s important to learn the best ways to run without experiencing any major physical or mental challenges that will hinder your progress.
At the end of the day, problems are going to happen as you run more and more. You could suffer from an ankle injury and need the best ankle surgeon Ocean NJ has to offer. If this is the case, get help from a qualified surgeon immediately and choose the best one available in your community.
We’ll now tell you about the typical challenges you’ll face as a runner. Use this information to better prepare and become an expert in the sport.
Challenge #1: Side Cramps
Unfortunately, many runners will experience side cramps (also known as side stitches, side aches, etc.) at any given time and they can become very debilitating. These cramps in your side will make it difficult to run and the pain can be extremely great and it can seemingly come out of nowhere.
A Portland sports medicine clinic can provide helpful tips and instructions to teach you how to deal with side cramps. And if it’s a serious medical condition, they can provide the necessary treatments to help you overcome this problem. Or if you prefer, get help from a sports medicine clinic in your own community if traveling isn’t an option.
To better deal with side cramps, there are a few things you can do to prevent them from ever happening in the first place. For starters, you shouldn’t eat anything for two hours or less before you go for a run. If you do, the side cramps can hit you seemingly out of nowhere.
Even better, if you can strengthen your core and learn how to breathe better you’ll experience relief from this pain while it’s happening. Or it will prevent it from happening in the first place.
If you suddenly begin experiencing side stitches, stop running and attempt to walk it off as you press your hands firmly on the area that hurts. Also, breathe slowly and deeply and the pain will subside. When you finally do begin running again, do so at a much slower pace until you can build up stamina and speed.
Challenge #2: Stomach Cramps
Many runners also experience stomach cramps. This can be very troubling and make it nearly impossible to get in a good run. Sometimes the cramps will hit during your run. Other times the cramps will not hit until you’ve finished your workout. Just know that this is quite a common experience for runners of all ages.
To handle this problem, you need to become proactive. Before running, try to avoid certain spicy, sweet, and high-fat foods. They will put additional strain on your stomach and cause unneeded cramping. These 2019 diet trends are good choices to help avoid stomach cramps while running.
It’s also wise to stay hydrated while running at all times. Proper hydration will prevent cramps and help your body better cope with this very physical situation.
Challenge #3: Sore Muscles
As a runner, your muscles are bound to get sore. The constant pounding of your leg muscles will make you feel pain. This pain can start hours after a workout and it could last for a while. Some people experience pain for as long as a week after running when first starting out.
When you are a beginning runner, you should start out slowly to avoid sore muscles and pain as much as possible. Take time before you increase your intensity and speed. By taking it slow, your body will better handle the changes that it’s currently experiencing because running is part of your daily life.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a runner is definitely going to present its challenges as you now know. But these potential problems shouldn’t stop you from enjoying this exciting sport.
Yes, you will experience sore muscles, stomach cramps, and side stitches from time to time. But if you use the information we shared today you’ll have no problem coping with these conditions so you can lead a happier and healthier life as a runner.