If you ask most runners what causes the most injuries they are likely to say that not enough stretching, not the right running shoes, or not warming up sufficiently. While these bad habits can indeed lead to injury, new studies have found that they are not the main culprits. Here’s what you need to know to help prevent injury.
Too Much Too Soon
Recent studies have shown that the main cause of sports injury is doing too much too soon. Whether this is because you want quick results or because you’ve had a stressful day at work, overstepping your limits will cause injury.
The best way to avoid this is to learn your limits. Pay attention to your performance and become familiar with your body.
10% Rule
The 10% rule is a handy rule of thumb that says that you shouldn’t increase your workout load by more than 10% each week. If you follow this rule, you are far less likely to sustain an injury.
Being patient is by far the best attitude for sports and fitness. Training is a marathon, not a sprint. Monitor your improvement every day and celebrate your achievements, but don’t try to get there too quickly. As the ancient proverb goes: slow and steady wins the race.
