Spring is finally here and most of us are eager to get back outside! Running is a favorite activity for many, especially as the weather begins to warm up. But when it comes to running, sprains, strains, and fractures are more common than you think. How can you prevent injuries while on the trail? Below are four of our top tips for staying safe and keeping your feet healthy while enjoying your morning or afternoon run!

Always Stretch First

Before enjoying any form of exercise, it’s crucial to warm up your body and strengthen your muscles and tendons. Take some time out of your routine to stretch your entire body, paying close attention to your legs, ankles, and feet. Not stretching before or after a run is the easiest way to create an injury. Below is a great beginners stretch:

Stand up straight and place your feet shoulder-width apart.
Slowly raise your heels, lifting onto the balls of your toes, focusing on the big toe
Hold for 5-10 seconds, then slowly lower.
Repeat up to 20 times, especially before a run.

Pay Close Attention

One of the most common causes of injuries during a run is tripping. To avoid this, always be on the lookout. Pay attention to any wet leaves, tree branches, rocks, animals, people, or anything else that can be in your way.

Listen To Your Body

For some, running is about increasing their strength and agility. But it’s important to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too far. This means stopping if you’re experiencing pain and taking frequent breaks to rest your feet. Easing into your run is important. Pushing yourself to the limit right off the bat can lead to unnecessary injuries. Go slow and build your speed gradually.

Wear The Right Shoes

One of the best ways you can prevent an injury is to wear the right kind of footwear. There are plenty of sneakers on the market, making it easy to find the best match. For guidance for buying new running sneakers, check out our recent blog post here.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, Dr. Anant Joshi and his staff treat a range of conditions and are committed to providing results. To schedule an appointment, contact his office in Woodland Park, NJ, at 973-256-0002.