People that have fitness goals realize getting injured can be a huge setback and will disrupt completing goals on time. Preventing running injuries is an integral part of staying fit and healthy, and there are simple methods that can be implemented to accomplish this. It is important to take a day off from your chosen sport as this can give the body ample time to rest. When the training is intense, it is beneficial to follow an easier workout the next day, allowing the legs and body to recover. Research has indicated how important sleep is for physically fit individuals and cardiovascular performance may be hindered if sleep is deprived on a routine basis. Warming up and cooling down is an essential part of any workout routine because it provides the muscles with increased blood flow, in addition to alleviating muscle stiffness. There are several ways running injuries can affect the feet so it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you on additional methods for how to prevent them.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Gordon Fosdick of Affiliated Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.