FEELING GREAT: Quick and simple tips to make running easier for everyone

Whether your a serious runner or do it for fun, these top tips can help you perform injury-free. Picture by FRANK REID

1. Make Sure You Warm-Up and Cool Down:

Most runners make the mistake of either not warming up their body the ‘right way’, or leaving a warm-up out completely, when a simple warm-up only takes 5 minutes to do.

All you need to do is get your heart pumping by jogging up and down on the spot for 2 minutes, and gently stretch the muscles you’ll be using when you run for the remaining 3 minutes - your calf, ankle and hamstring.

It’s important to warm up these muscles after you’ve jogged on the spot so you body is prepared - otherwise there’s a higher chance that you’re likely to get injured. Just 3-4 simple stretches is all you need to get past the finish line.

2. Get The Right Running Shoes:

Your running trainers don’t have to be that expensive, but don’t underestimate the importance of a good pair of running shoes. Your old pair of running shoes that you’ve hidden away in the closet for a year won’t be any good, and you should definitely resist running in plimsoles.

To reduce the likelihood of injury, get yourself a pair of well cushioned trainers that are comfortable to run in, and will take any impact.

3. Don’t Worry About The Pace:

As a beginner, most of your runs should start out at a “conversational” pace. What I mean by this, is that they shouldn’t feel too tough - you should be able to breath without feeling like you’re so out of breath that you can’t carry on a conversation.

Don’t worry about your pace per mile - if you can pass the ‘talk test’, you’re running at the right speed.

Starting out slow will help prevent any risk of injury that could make you sit out.

So there you have it! Three simple tips to help keep injury-proof your body if you’ve started (or are thinking about) running.

For more running tips like this, click here: www.paulgoughphysio.com/sports-injury-clinic