7 Signs You Might Be Running Wrong

Jul 20, 2016

Think there is no wrong way to run? While, yes, we tend to make our lives complicated, the way you run can affect your productivity, health and weight loss results. When you run correctly, you reap all the benefits this exercise offers. When you do it wrong, you reap all the side effects instead. Whether you have been jogging and running for decades or are just starting out, take a few minutes to learn about seven signs you might be running wrong.

1 You experience severe muscle soreness after each running session

If the only thought of running makes you shiver, it is a red flag. Intense muscle soreness is one of the signs you might be running wrong. Do you warm up and stretch before and after running? Do you drink enough water?

Stretching prepares your body for running and sends oxygenated blood to your muscles. Many runners skip a warmup when they are short on time, but in reality, it takes 2 to 3 minutes to stretch and get ready for your 10- or 20-minute run.

2 Running cramps reduce your pace

There are several reasons for running cramps. When you do not breathe the proper way while running, you are more likely to experience cramps in your side. When you do not stay hydrated, you are more likely to have leg cramps. Some runners also complain about having stomach cramps.

If you relate to them too, watch your post and after workout meal plans. Reduce your fat consumption and include more proteins in your after workout meals. I recommend eating an apple before running. It gives the body some fiber, pectin, natural sugar, vitamin C, and a quick energy boost.

3 You hit the ground with your heels

There is nothing wrong with hitting the ground with the heels unless you feel an unbearable pain in your knees and calves. This can lead to serious knee injuries and poor performance. Make sure your strides are not too long. Shorter strides help to boost efficiency and lower your risk for getting leg injuries.

Read also – 7 Effective Ways to Drop 10 Pounds Running

4 You can’t stop flipping through your playlist

The playlist may be the last thing you think when getting ready for your running session. Sure, it is important to wear the right sneakers and outfit, but if you have a boring playlist, do not expect your run to be productive. You can spend your entire running session looking for the song that will improve your efficiency, but all in vain. Create a powerful playlist in advance.

5 You hunch your shoulders

Hunching your shoulders can not only affect your posture but your pace as well. Moreover, it promotes bad breathing and cramps. The next time you run, keep your shoulder blades down. This will help you improve your breathing and increase your pace and endurance. Sometimes, the smallest things matter the most.

6 You skip your post-run stretches

No matter how tired you are after your running session, you have to do a few quick post-run stretches to prevent muscle pain and boost your energy. 30 to 60 seconds will be enough to complete your run on a healthy note. If you do not feel like doing stretches, consider walking for at least three minutes.

Read also – 9 Best 5 Minute Butt and Leg Exercises

7 You feel run down and drained

If you feel drained and exhausted after each running session, it is one of the signs that you are running wrong. Running helps to increase energy; it does not lower it. Practice breathing techniques, find your ideal pace, stay hydrated, eat healthily and avoid texting and calling during your run. Another factor to consider is sleep. You need to get enough sleep each day. Furthermore, it is best to run in the morning rather than in the evening.

No one can tell you that you are running good or wrong, but you may feel a lot energized and happier as soon as you start running the right way. Fix the mistakes mentioned above and feel free to share your own experience and tips with us. Running has many health and weight loss benefits, so improving it can greatly contribute to your overall well-being.