When you start running, it is important to take the necessary precautions to prevent running injuries. There are many problems that can occur due to running injuries. For one thing, they can force you to take time off of running. This may be enough to halt your progress altogether. In addition, these injuries can lead to long-term problems with your physical health. Preventing running injuries can help you to make the most of your running routine.
Wear the Right Running Shoes
It is essential to wear the appropriate gear when you begin running. The running shoes are generally the most expensive piece of equipment that you can use. It is essential to ensure that your running shoes fit properly. Work with a professional to help you choose the right running shoes for your own running style. In general, you want you running shoes to be snug in the heel, but provide a little extra room around the toes. It is also important to ensure that you replace your running shoes regularly to ensure they continue to provide support while you are running.
Stretch Often
Frequent stretching can often help you to prevent running injuries. When you stretch on a regular basis, you will be able to improve your flexibility. This improved flexibility helps to reduce the likelihood that you will sustain injuries.
Strength Training
Building up your muscles can help you to prevent injuries. When you start running, it is often beneficial to incorporate strength training into your routine. This strength training will help you to build stronger muscles that will be less vulnerable to injuries.
Listen to your Body
Your body will tell you if something is wrong, but it is important to ensure that you listen to it. If you are ever experiencing pain or feel incredibly sluggish, you may want to take a break and allow your body to recover. Listening to your body will help you to prevent pushing yourself too hard and sustaining an injury.
Increase Activity Gradually
When you’ve never run a day in your life, you certainly don’t want to begin running 5 miles every day. It is important to start at a low level of activity and increase the amount of effort gradually. In many cases, you should start mostly walking with short periods of jogging. Then you can slowly increase the amount of running. This will often help you to prevent running injuries.
Talk to your Doctor
Consulting with your doctor will help you to obtain guidance regarding the best way to implement your new exercise routine. It is also beneficial to get a physical exam prior to starting a new routine, so your doctor can identify any problems that may impact the routine.
Visit your Chiropractor
Your chiropractor or physical therapist can help you to identify problems that may impact your running. Scheduling an appointment with our experts at Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy can help you to find potential problems that can lead to injuries.
Run with Good Form
Running with good form is critical in preventing running injuries. When you run, it is important to stand up straight and refrain from slouching forward, even when you start to get tired. You should also strike the pavement directly underneath your body, rather than ahead of your body. Practicing good posture will help you to prevent running injuries.
Warm Up and Cool Down
Every time you exercise, it is important to spend some time warming up and cooling down. Taking a few minutes to do each of these things will go a long way toward reducing the likelihood of becoming injured.
At Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy, we are passionate about providing sports medicine and injury treatment to improve your physical well-being. If you have sustained a running injury, our experts can often help to develop a superior treatment plan to get you back on the track as soon as possible. For more information about the services we offer at Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy, contact us today!
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