15 Aug Body Conditioning for Running

Running is typically construed as a warmup for other exercises and workouts, but did you know that you should be warming up to run too?

If you want to reduce injury risk and make your runs more efficient, than your body should be conditioned before your run.

The run itself is your body’s training, but in order to prepare for a run you must condition. When you are conditioned for a run, your body is better prepared for the demand and all of those miles you’re about to put on your body. It’s important that your joints—knees, ankles, and hips specifically—aren’t able to move around freely because that is how injuries occur. A warm-up isn’t solely about raising your body temperature and getting focused, it’s about getting your body ready and providing flexibility, balance, agility, and resilience.

A successful warm-up will prepare your muscles for a workout, reduce your risk of injury, and get your heart rate up. There are two main purposes of warming up and they are to enhance your performance and prevent injury. Part of the warm up process is mentally preparing yourself for your run. Warming up is also thought to improve your technique, skill, and coordination. The mental warm-up is also a preparation for the chance of discomfort the body may experience during running or working out. If your mind is ready to experience discomfort, the body will be prepared to work harder and move faster.

As important as it is to warm-up before running, it is just as important to warm up correctly. Lake Country Physical Therapy and Sports Care is here to help with any questions you may have. We can help teach you how to properly warm-up and prepare your body for a run and prevent injury. Our therapists can help your body warm up correctly and teach you how to do so on your own. Call today to make an appointment at (585) 396-1400.