Running can be a healthy pursuit. When you run, it brings many benefits to one’s physical and mental well-being. While this is true, there are challenges for both beginners and pros. Running can be more complicated than you might think. Whether you’re a serious runner or just enjoy running once in a while, there is a greater need to be aware of the problems associated with running.
According to Statista, in 2017, almost 60 million Americans participated in either running or jogging. If you’re one of them, you should be aware of the six inconveniences of running and how to overcome them.
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1) Carrying Essentials During A Run
Going for a run without personal belongings such as your phone, wallet, and hydration pack is not a good idea.
However, the pockets in your shorts or jacket may not be the ideal place to keep them since they may be either too loose or too small.
This makes it difficult to run with belongings that you may need in case of any emergency. If you are looking for a way to carry essentials, consider buying fanny packs for running. Taking a fanny pack during your run will help protect your valuables and make it easy for you to run comfortably without worrying about losing them.
Furthermore, you can also look for armbands or running belts. They are lightweight and come in different sizes and designs based on your preferences.
2) Using Incorrect Running Equipment
A major inconvenience of running is not figuring out what clothing and shoes to wear before you set off. Using the wrong running equipment can cause you problems down the line.
A lot of runners often wear the wrong running shoes. Doing this may cause common running injuries, including losing your balance or getting blisters and sprains while running. The solution to this problem is easy. Wearing clothes that are made up of suitable fabric is essential for a comfortable run. Examples of some suitable fabrics are materials such as nylon and polyester.
These are not only lightweight but also absorb sweat. It is best to avoid wearing cotton as it absorbs moisture and traps the said moisture under your clothes. When it comes to running shoes, invest in a good pair that will help you keep your balance and avoid injuries during a run.
3) Stomach Cramps
Getting stomach cramps during a run is a common inconvenience. Cramps may occur if your digestion system gets activated while running.
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Once your digestion system is activated, it experiences stress that gives way to cramps. Not only is this an uncomfortable feeling, but it even lowers your stamina as the pain increases. To avoid cramps, you should be mindful when it comes to your pre-workout meal. Before going for a run, ensure you do not eat spicy, fattening, or sweet food. You should also drink an adequate amount of water as that helps prevent stomach pain.
Keeping yourself hydrated during the run will also help your body respond well. Following this regularly will help your body stay alert and get adjusted to running activity.
4) Pain In Feet Or Muscles
There are common complaints about pain in a runner’s feet or muscles after a run. The pain starts a few hours or a day after the run and may get worse over time. You may experience such pain because of the wear and tear of tissues and overstrain of your feet and muscles. The strain is due to overexertion of your body while out running.
If this frequently happens to you, it is best to lower the intensity of your daily run. If you are a beginner, you should start with smaller goals that are easy to achieve and motivate you to continue your runs. If such pain increases over time, you should consult a doctor before it gets too severe. Taking it slow and steady is the key to avoiding pain.
5) Running Too Fast
Running at the right pace is crucial whether you are a beginner or an experienced runner. While consistency is the key, running is helpful only if you are running at the correct speed. Be it long distances or short, running too fast can tire you immensely. Doing this will make it challenging to cover a significant distance with consistent energy and willpower. Hence, you should not give in to the temptation of running too fast.
Try to make an effort to run at a moderate speed. You can do this by tracking how long you take to cover a distance, how tired you feel, and correcting your posture while running. In cases where you’re already feeling pain for a while, rest for a few days to help your body recover.
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6) Difficulty Falling Asleep
The stress experienced in your body during a run may cause muscle fatigue. This could be a challenging experience, especially if you go for a run at the start of the day. Your running routine may also hamper your ability to fall asleep quickly.
Running activates your body and increases your adrenaline levels. As a result, you may find it difficult to fall asleep. An easy way to improve your sleep is by taking shorter runs. Doing so will help your body release stress hormones that will help you relax. Your body needs time to adjust to a set running routine.
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To support this adjustment process, ensure that you complete your run at least 2-3 hours before your bedtime. Going to sleep after a run does have many benefits, including rebuilding muscle tissue in the body. If you run in the morning, it is crucial to go to sleep early the day before.
