As a runner, there are five things you should remove from your running life before it's too late. These aren't the typical videos you see with a runner sharing five obvious tips. Instead, I will share five things you should stop doing to stay healthy, improve, and reduce the risk of injury. These are important tips, but they will only be valuable if you put them into practice. So, close the tabs on your computer, forget about Instagram for a while, and focus on what I have to say.
First, stop using running as a substitute for therapy. Running can be therapeutic, but it is not therapy. Running can help with mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, improving self-esteem, and more. However, if running is your only source of mental health, it can lead to problems. I've seen many people in my clinic who rely solely on running for their mental health, and it often leads to injuries. For example, "Maria" arrived with a fractured shin that required her to stop running for a while. She couldn't imagine a day without running, saying that it was a depressing thought. Relying too heavily on running for mental health can cause you to overexert yourself and risk injury.
Instead, use running as one of the tools to maintain good mental health, but don't rely on it solely. If you're dealing with anxiety or depression, seek help from professionals such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or therapists. Running can complement these treatments, but it can't replace them.
Second, stop focusing excessively on running gear. While shoes, compression socks, recovery sandals, ice baths, and other running gear can help, they are secondary. The main focus should be on your body and what you're doing with it. For instance, having the best cushioned shoes won't help if your leg muscles are weak. Strong muscles, good sleep, a proper training plan, and the right muscle conditioning are essential for absorbing impact and preventing injuries.
Third, be cautious of biomechanical advice on social media. While many people on Instagram and YouTube have good intentions, most of the content is incorrect. As a physical therapist who studied biomechanics at the University of São Paulo, I can tell you that most of what I see on social media is wrong. Biomechanics is simpler than it seems, and focusing too much on specifics like arm angles or breathing patterns can be unnecessary and even harmful.
The main goal of biomechanics is to absorb impact and propel yourself forward. Focus on your ability to absorb impact and gain momentum. If you want to learn more about caring for your body as a runner, I invite you to check out my online program, Viva Corrida.
Lastly, stop comparing yourself to others. Running is a personal journey, and everyone's progress is different. Don't feel pressured to keep up with others or follow their training plans. Focus on your own goals and run at the pace that works for you. Ignore the "run more, be a better runner" mentality, and remember that everyone has different abilities and circumstances.
In conclusion, by removing these five things from your running life, you can have a healthier, more enjoyable running experience. It's essential to take care of your body, seek professional help when needed, and focus on your own progress. Don't be discouraged by social media or compare yourself to others. Instead, focus on your own journey and enjoy the benefits of running.