Running is a great way to stay active, reduce stress and improve your overall health, but repetitive impact can place stress on your back. A few simple adjustments can help you run more comfortably and reduce your risk of injury.
Guidance for Running Smarter:
- Wear supportive running shoes: Cushioned shoes help absorb impact and support your spine. Visit Track Shack to find the best fit for your running style.
- Warm up before and after your run: Stretch your back and hamstrings before and after running to prepare your body for movement and help reduce your risk of injury.
- Choose your route carefully: Run on softer surfaces like a padded track or grassy path when possible, and avoid hills, uneven terrain and tight turns that can increase your risk of injury.
- Maintain proper running form: Keep your head up, back straight, elbows bent at 90 degrees, and your neck and shoulders relaxed throughout your run.
- Focus on your cadence: Avoid overextending your stride. Increasing your step rate rather than your stride length can help reduce stress on your body.
What to Avoid:
- Running in worn-out or unsupportive shoes
- Skipping your warm-up and stretching routine
- Running on uneven or hazardous surfaces
- Overstriding, which can increase your risk of injury
Helping You Run Toward Better Health
At AdventHealth, we seek to care for all of you — body, mind and spirit — so you can keep doing what you love. For more guidance, read the full article here: Helping You Run Smarter | The AdventHealth Blog and visit YourPhysicalTherapyExperts.com to schedule an appointment with our Sports Med & Rehab care team.