Over training

I would hope that many of you are well on your way at this point to training for your first 5k. If :not, the training schedules are in this blog and it is not too late to start. Get moving!

"This is too easy. I can run the whole thing!"
One of the most common complaints people often have about running is injury. They start running and quickly they are on the sidelines because of pulled muscles, shin splints, etc.

The two biggest causes of injury are:

1. Improper or poor quality equipment
2. Over training

Today I would like to address over training. Yes, it is possible to run TOO MUCH. Over training is a common problem and can happen to anyone, even the seasoned athlete. It is the reason we want you to follow a training plan. If the plan really is too easy, try jog/ running the distances instead of walk/ jogging the distances.

What is over training?
It is training too much or doing too much in a day. You may have experienced this doing stuff around the house like yard work (not an excuse to get out of chores). There can be a fine line between pushing yourself in a workout and over training.

Signs of over training:

1. VERY sore muscles (for several days)
2. Feeling tired
3. Injury
4. Legs feel "heavy" or fatigued
5. Not able to move as freely or quickly as usual

You may also want to check in with your eating and sleeping patterns, as they can lead to feeling similar. In addition, be sure to warm up before working out and stretch afterwards.

Remember: Just because you ran all over the soccer field last fall does not mean that you can do it now. Fitness is something that needs to be maintained.

Happy Running!