I hear a lot about running injuries. Is it safe to run?
It’s true that runners do, from time to time suffer injuries because of their passion – torn muscles, sprained tendons and ligaments. Some even trip as they’re putting on their shorts and injure their backs tying their shoelaces, ROSPA reports.
You have to weigh against this, however, the accidents and conditions that are less likely to occur as a result of your participation in running. As a fit runner, your balance will improve (especially if you run on a variety of surfaces including uneven ones such as tracks and grassland). You’re therefore less likely to fall in general terms. And if you do, your stronger bones and connective tissue will hold up better to the stress of it, resulting in less injury. You’ll be able to manage the stresses and strains of everyday life with less chance of, for example, getting a bad back. And of course none of this includes the added benefits in terms of reduced ill health (see ‘What are the Benefits of Running?’)
Think about it like this. As with any other sport, running has its hazards. But the risk of any of those hazards resulting in accidents can be vastly reduced by some simple measure you can take:
ALWAYS warm up before going for a run. Start by walking.
Although arguments about pre-exercise stretching continue, no-one has shown that it’s bad for you! ALWAYS stretch before going out or on the treadmill.
Follow the beginners’s guidelines (see ‘Where do I start?’) and don’t be tempted to do too much too soon (one of the commonest causes of injury and VERY frustrating).
Increase your distance by no more than 10% per week
Rest on at least two days per week
Don’t be tempted to run if you have pain in a muscle or joint. Rest and seek medical advice if necessary. It’s unlikely to go away if you continue to run on it and most probably it’ll get worse, resulting in rest and a big gap in your training.
Try to run with someone else. If you run alone, vary your route and the time of day you run. It’s a good idea, too, to carry some ID (go to http://www.coco.org.uk and help a charity while keeping yourself safe).
Other FAQs in this category (Running) :
- I like the idea of taking up jogging. Where do I start?
- What are the benefits of running?
- What’s the difference between running and jogging?
- Is it really necessary to pay a lot for running shoes?
- How do I know how far I’m running?
- I can’t think of anything worse! Why bother?
« all FAQs
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