When You Can't Run Anymore
By Sara Butler
Running can become addictive. Once you do your first race, you keep ramping it up to go farther. But not everyone can run forever. If you were into running but can’t do it anymore, you may be wondering what on earth you can do now in order to get that workout high. Here are a few exercises you may want to consider if you can no longer pound the pavement.
Why Quit Running?
Running, just as with any sport, has risks. It’s a high-impact sport so it puts a lot of stress on bones and joints. This increased stress ups the odds of injury. Overuse injuries are especially prevalent among runners and they can be difficult to recover from. Some runners may just burn out, too.
Filling the Void
If you loved running but can’t or don’t want to participate in it anymore, it can be a tough void to fill. There are other things you can try to take the place of running that is different enough to vary your workout but also helps you to get the endorphin rush of running.
- Aqua jogging – Anything in a pool is low impact, so it’s good for your joints. Aqua jogging helps to provide the strength and cardiovascular workout that you’re used to with running but is much kinder to your body. So, if you stopped running due to injury, then this may be one sport to try.
- Spinning or cycling – Riding a bike is another low impact running replacement that can really get your blood pumping. It helps to strengthen muscles in the legs, hips, and ankles but doesn’t put so much stress on them while doing it. You can buy a bike and hit the trail or you can use a stationary bike at the gym.
- Hiking – If what you love about running is getting outside, then try to go for a hike. It’s a lower intensity workout than running but stays challenging due to tough terrain. It burns more calories than simply walking, too.
- Elliptical – This machine helps to give you the action of running without the impact. It can strengthen your core and also your legs, all while keeping your body healthy and happy. As well, you can challenge your upper body by using the arm levers on the machine.
You may love running, but if you can't do it anymore, then find something else to fall in love with!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Columbus, Ohio.