Run Smart – Avoid the Pain

Avoid sideaches.

Running is widely considered one of the most challenging and simultaneously rewarding fields of exercise there is. We see it all around us – whether we drive by a jogger on the way to the grocery store or turn on the Olympics to watch a quick 200 meter dash. Running is one of the most basic activities mankind has had and to this day, it is a great way to escape into nature and clear one’s head.

But it’s also not easy, especially for a beginning runner. While running veterans can run marathons, novices might struggle through ten minutes if they haven’t been doing any physical conditioning. That’s just how it is. And while these growing pains eventually dissipate and you become a better runner, there are “secondary” pains to being a runner that you should be aware of. Here’s how to avoid them.

-Chub rub.

Ew; just the name sounds disgusting. Chub rub is what it sounds like – it’s that rash you get when running and your thighs rub together. It’s called “chub rub,” but you don’t have to be chubby to get it – many runners, even the skinny long-distance runners, have to take preventative measures against this. When it comes to running, there are two types of pain: “good” pain that will lead to muscle growth and better endurance, and “bad” pain that really has no purpose whatsoever. Minimize the bad pain.

To avoid chub rub, make sure you’re wearing fresh, full underwear that successfully wicks sweat away. Believe it or not, wool can be a good fabric for this purpose, or at least cotton. Some long-distance runners also rub Vaseline in those “private parts” to prevent chub rub. Just keep it in mind.

-Joint pain.

Believe it or not, joint pain can come and go, and while I’m no doctor, some studies have suggested that rnning actually increases the strengths of your joints, like your knees. Running actually prevents injury on a long-term statistical basis and is healthier for your leg bones. To avoid joint pain, do some proper stretching and watch your running form – try to land as softly as you can. Let your form be a work in progress and do what feels most natural and painless to you.

-Sideaches.

Sideaches often come when you’re not really breathing properly, so make sure that you monitor your breathing. Stay as consistent as possible and keep your nose clear – even on cold days.

Of course, if any symptom gets too bad, simply see a doctor and they’ll be able to advise you on what to do next. However, by following some of these preventative measures, you should be able to take away some of the pain from running and start enjoying it more.

Photo Credits: Ed Yourdon

Originally posted 2009-04-28 05:48:41.

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