RUNNERS ACHES AND PAINS

Running  tends to be the starting point to most fitness regimes,  whether it's  the first day of a weight loss campaign or an important part of an Athlete's out of season base training  we all pull on our trainers and take to the roads. The seasoned athlete will have put together a progressive training plan starting slowly and building towards there goal event . A big part of this preparation is a detailed  STRETCHING and strengthening programme alongside technical drills and still top class athletes get injured

Where as we the weekend warriors pound the pavements with no stretching and ill fitting footwear and run as far as we can and then we are surprised when we pick up an injury at which point we throw our trainers back in the cupboard and our good intentions are derailed.

So how do we get started? Speak with your doctor and let him know your thoughts, a check up is always advisable before taking on any new fitness programme.   I would then advise you to visit your local running shop and get your gait checked to make sure that your running shoes suit the way that you run  ie: do you over-pronate  are you a neutral runner or do you supinate, we will speak more about running styles in future articles.

Once you are happy with your footwear  my advice would be to join a local jogging/ running group where you will be in with a group of like minded people who are also at the same level of ability as yourself and who will help motivate and encourage you. You will also learn stretching techniques from the group leaders who will also give you a manageable programme to follow.

 There is no better feeling than being out in the fresh air taking some exercise  so it is worth doing the basics well in order to minimise the chance of injury. and before you know it you are a Runner.