Running is both an exciting sport and a fantastic way to stay in shape. Running will change your life for the better, you’ll live longer, feel healthier and happier and your only regret will be that you didn’t start sooner. No one can deny that running is good exercise. There are many differing opinions when it comes to techniques and gear regarding running. Like any popular form of exercise, running is the subject of many myths and exaggerations. Here are some of the most common myths about running, and some of the most surprising realities behind them.
Myth 1: Running causes knee pain
Running doesn’t cause knee pain. Running excessively without sufficient recovery or running with improper technique can cause knee pain. So running, as it is, will not cause any negative impact on the human body when done in the manner nature intended it to be done. . And researchers have shown that running actually improves knee health. It reduces your chances of developing osteoarthritis and hip replacement risk.
Myth 2: Rest is for the weak
Rest is a key component in getting stronger. Your body needs time to rebuild muscle and recover; if you don’t give your body the time then you won’t get the benefits of the workout and will feel sluggish. Muscle soreness typically peaks at 2-3 days. I find running again at that time actually helps my recovery and helps reduce soreness, but not before that. Massage, stretching or a hot bath/shower helps relieve soreness and feels so good for aching muscles.
Myth 3: Running will give me spots
For some people there may be a little truth in this as sweat build up and sebum clogging pores make spots more likely. Careful skin cleansing soon after running can help. The majority however find their skin improves with regular exercise. Fresh air and increased blood flow gives you a healthy glow. Running regularly often leads you to better nutrition.
Myth 4: Running will burn all muscles
Like squatting, running is a great fitness tool. It is not true that running will eat up all your muscles. As long as we don’t overdo it and maintain a reasonable running volume and pace, there is no risk of muscle loss. Adding a reasonable amount of running to a strength training plan will only help improve overall fitness and, specially, stamina.
Myth 5: It’s essential to stretch before running
The truth is that stretching before a run could actually increase your chances of getting injured. Stretching is not bad for you, but it's not the ideal way to exercise cold muscles. You are better off getting warmed up by walking or jogging at a slow pace. If you want to stretch for flexibility, the best time to do so is after a warm-up or even after your run.
