Top Three Tips for Runners

Today was the day of the Boston Marathon 2015! Awesome job to all the runners!

I’ve had many runners visit me this April. It seemed like the temps went above 50 and all of the sudden, I met lots of runners seeking help! (Thank you, April!)

My runners typically have busy lives,  intense schedules, and some rock-solid goals in mind. I want to break down my plethora of tips for you guys! I’ll keep it short, sweet, and simple.

TIP #1
STRETCH
Please. Just do the stretches. After you’ve worked out is typically the best time to stretch. Why? You’re muscles are warmer and more pliable, and it’s also a nice way to cool down and help things settle after you’ve jostled them for a long time. Dynamic stretching is my preferred way to warm up prior to running. This includes things like: leg swings, arm swings, & side bends. This was a great resource I found.

TIP #2
FOAM ROLLER/TENNIS BALL/LACROSSE BALL
These tools provide you with so much therapy! As a runner, you should not be without at least one of the above. Massages are great, chiropractic adjustments are wonderful, and going for other types of workouts outside of running are all great ways to increase flexibility, strength, and endurance. But, typically, these types of professionals do not live in your home. When that happens my friends, your life is complete! In all seriousness, having one or more of these self-massage tools is helpful because it gives you great insight into what’s happening in your body. You become more familiar with postures that aggravate your body, you know where your range of motion is limited, and you learn how you can help yourself.

TIP #3
REST
I did it. I said it. By “rest” I mean everything from proper sleep at night, to taking naps if you need them, to backing off workouts if you need to. Injuries happen. But rehab also needs to take place. It’s important to let your body heal. And yes, sometimes that means backing off. This does not mean you’re lazy or that you’re failing! This means that you care enough about yourself and your body to give it the time it needs to recoup so you can come back stronger!

Let me know if you have any other great tips that have worked for you or a runner in your life!

Until next time…
here’s to hoping your running shoes don’t end up looking like mine (above)!

B.