20 Jul Guilty of the Top 3 Myths about Running 

Guilty of the Top 3 Myths about Running 

Here at My Favourite Physio, our Expert Physiotherapists see many runners to help them overcome their running injuries to get back to running at peak performance. Often we hear these common misconceptions about running which results in running injuries.

Myth #1: Runners do not need to do strength training.

Truth #1: Numerous studies have shown that the addition of heavy weight training along with endurance training significantly increases running performance and enhances running efficiency.

Myth #2: You have to run everyday to improve running performance.

Truth #2: Running everyday does not necessarily improve performance. It is important to consider individual factors such as running goals, fitness levels, muscle tightness and flexibility when structuring a running program. No one universal training program applies to every athlete. A running program should factor in recovery strategies as well as training strategies to ensure that a runner achieves their goals and remains injury free.

Myth #3: Drink at every water station.

Truth #3: This may be one of the biggest and most damaging myths of all! Drinking too much water, especially during the long runs, can cause a medical condition called hyponatremia, an electrolyte disturbance in which the concentration of sodium in your blood is abnormally low. Symptoms of hyponatremia include nausea and vomiting, headache, confusion, lethargy, fatigue, loss of appetite, restlessness and irritability, muscle weakness, spasms, or cramps, seizures, and decreased consciousness or coma.

Knowing how much water to drink is unfortunately an inexact science, and is dependent upon physiological and external factors including the environmental temperature and wind. The dangers of over hydration have been emphasised in the book Waterlogged by Dr Tim Noakes.

If you are struggling with running injuries or would love to improve your running performance, ring My Favourite Physio on (02) 9790 4233 or DM us @myfavouritephysio to speak with one of our Expert Physiotherapists to find out how we can help you today!