When it comes to running, just when you think you’ve reached a place where there’s really no more room for improvement, you find out that even a slight adjustment can pay huge dividends for your body and overall health. We came across a recent article that highlights just such adjustments, and while some may be minor while others may be fairly substantial, they could each end up aiding your workout and holding off the types of injuries that might crop up if you’re not careful.
One of the most overlooked aspects of a run, even by experienced runners, is your shoe. When you first buy a pair of running shoes, you typically have confidence that your foot is being cushioned and protected from the damage that might otherwise result. The problem is when you run those shoes into the ground, leaving them on your feet for longer than you would have anticipated because they’ve become your favorite running shoe.
Instead, don’t shy away from getting a new pair of running shoes when the old ones go bad, letting go of any attachment you might have to a particular pair. While the length of time you get out of a pair of shoes will vary depending on regularity of use and distance ran, try to keep an eye on wear and tear and overall comfort levels. Listen to your body; your feet may tell you when it’s time to get new shoes.
Much of the advice available speaks to the importance of balancing a run out with other types of exercise to give your entire body the type of fitness it needs to excel. One expert points out the value of yoga and the usage of a foam roller, another points to supplemental strength training, while another toasts to the value of a flexibility program.
The takeaway is simple: you shouldn’t attempt to get by on running alone. What occurs when you become laser-focused is that you put your legs at risk for overuse injuries while putting the other parts of your body at risk for underuse injuries. The more balance you can achieve, the better you’ll feel.
You should also introduce some changes into the actual running portion of your workout. It’s admirable that you want to run ten miles a day every day, but that will take its toll. Interject some sprinting into a workout, focusing on speed rather than distance. Or, switch to a different route so that you don’t place too much of an emphasis on one part of your body, which is what would happen if you ran on one sidewalk tilted every so slightly toward the road every day.
In these ways and more, you can improve your health for the better.
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