Mid-run Mishaps and How to Recover From Them

Every runner encounters, at some time or another, a mid-run mishap.  Perhaps you get a blister, muscle cramp or twist your ankle.  Perhaps your mishap occurs during a big race or important training run, or maybe you’re just doing an easy run.  Either way mishaps can be annoying, but if you employ these tips you will be around them in no time.

Mishap: Blister

Recover: In a short run or race, keep going.  Otherwise, it’s best to confront a blister before it throws off your stride.  Covering the blister with a Band-Aid or moleskin is ideal.  If an aid station or home is miles away try adjusting your laces.  Tighten them to prevent rubbing, loosen them to relieve pressure on a hot spot.

Mishap: Muscle Cramp

Recover: Stop running and apply pressure to the muscle for 15 seconds, do not massage it.  Stretch the muscle, gently then repeat the cycle (pressure/stretch) until the cramp subsides.  Walk first, the slowly increase your pass.

Mishap: Ankle Turn

Recover: If you suffered a minor sprain, your first few steps might be painful, but if you continue to run your ankle will loosen up and allow you to proceed with your run.  However, you should stop if your pain increases with each step, a sign of a fracture.

These mishaps happen to everyone, but with these tips you should be able to get back into the game in no time.  Stay tuned next week as we address several other mid run mishaps including side stiches, falling and stiffness after a pit stop.  Until then, happy running.

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/anitzsche/271557876/

June 29th, 2009 by Aspen Streetman | Posted in Tips, Training | (0)