Facing Running Injuries – A Caution for Fellow Enthusiasts

Buzz

Content

Main Reason: Lack of Training

Main reason: Lack of rest, inadequate nutrition

Pushing oneself but acknowledging personal limits

Incorporate complementary exercises to prevent injuries

Injuries and subpar performances are part of the long-distance game

A not-so-pleasant experience, hoping to offer insights to fellow enthusiasts.

Last Sunday, I ran 21km in the Sơn Kim Thủ Đức City Run. Around kilometer 15, I had to walk the entire distance due to intense pain in my left knee. Each step was painful, forcing me to walk instead of run to the finish line. The pain lasted for several days. This marked my first running injury since I started running in 2017. (Cover photo courtesy of the Sơn Kim Thủ Đức City Run organizers, cropped for presentation.)

Main Reason: Lack of Training

In the past month, I joined four running events, covering a 21km distance in each. Due to a busy schedule, my training was almost nonexistent, only running on event days.

In the previous three events, with minimal training, I ran at a slow pace, combining it with taking photos and reviewing the running experience, making everything smooth. However, in this latest event, leg pain surfaced around kilometers 14-15. For the first time since starting this activity, I had to walk to the finish line due to knee pain.

In previous instances, I was quite confident in relying on the accumulated physical foundation, coupled with not competing for speed. So, I participated in the competition with a relaxed mindset, without any rigorous training. However, the injury last Sunday served as a wake-up call for myself. It reminded me that no matter how much physical strength you build up, if you don't maintain it, the body won't withstand prolonged physical activity.

The human body is truly miraculous, my friends. It always gives warning signals in advance. Actually, after completing the 21km run last week, the left knee showed slight signs of pain. However, I ignored this warning sign. Surprisingly, in this instance, my leg is rapidly recovering, showing noticeable signs of improvement.

Main reason: Lack of rest, inadequate nutrition

Prior to an endurance race, almost everyone takes a break and ensures they have a full meal. Besides maintaining this daily habit, serious athletes will observe even stricter rest in the days leading up to the event.

However, recently, due to some changes in my work schedule, there have been disruptions in my eating and sleeping patterns. A few nights before the competition, I even stayed up late. This is also the reason that contributed to my compromised health.

Pushing oneself but acknowledging personal limits

Since embracing running, I've gained valuable insights. For instance, one needs to exert effort to push oneself and improve performance. However, it's equally crucial to listen to the body, recognizing the limits that signal when to pause and avoid regrettable incidents.

During the last stretch of the recent run, the struggle was quite evident, but I maintained a light-hearted attitude while walking towards the finish line. There were a few attempts to run, but the pain in my legs was too much to bear. If not this race, there will be another one, but sacrificing my legs is not an option.

Incorporate complementary exercises to prevent injuries

To prevent injuries while running, experts advise incorporating supplementary workouts 1-2 times per week. In addition to exercises targeting leg muscles, it's essential to engage in activities that strengthen the core. These complementary exercises ensure the overall well-being of relevant muscle groups, reducing the likelihood of unwarranted injuries.

As for supplementary exercises, I'm quite confident. Despite being lazy with running, I dedicate 3-4 sessions each week to full-body workouts. This has also contributed to my recent complacency, almost neglecting running altogether.

Injuries and subpar performances are part of the long-distance game

Among both dedicated and recreational runners I know, many have faced injuries, some even experienced a Did Not Finish (DNF) in races. Surprisingly, they view these incidents as quite normal, an integral part of the game. (Of course, no one wishes for injuries.)

At different stages of life, some individuals prioritize other matters, easing off their running habits, only to return to the sport later.

Having learned such lessons, I feel quite comfortable acknowledging some of my weaknesses in this pursuit. The key is to continue maintaining the habit as it contributes to personal well-being.

Mytour's content is for customer care and travel encouragement only, and we are not responsible.

For errors or inappropriate content, please contact us at: [email protected]