8 Things You Didn’t Know About Running

Running may be your thing, but there’s more to it than you think. Improve your style and prepare for your next run with the following 8 running facts from Sun & Sand Sports.

1. Cotton is not your friend

Breathable as it may be, cotton is actually not the most run-friendly fabric because it soaks up sweat, getting wet and causing chafing. The last thing you want on your run is skin irritation and odour-filled fabric. Switch to synthetic materials such as spandex and polyester that wick sweat away. Some fabrics are even odour-resistant, ensuring that you stay fresh.

 2.Wearing the right shoes goes a long way

The shoes. It always starts with the shoes. A sturdy pair will not only prevent injury but also ensures that you hit the ground correctly. Look for shoes designed for running like the Saucony Zealot ISO or the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 32 that will amp up your run while cushioning your feet.

3. It’s all in your head

Afraid you won’t make it to the end of the half marathon? Or worse, show up last? Feeling too old to pick up your feet? Trust us, the only place these fears live and thrive is in your head. Finishing the distance is half your head, half your body. Stay confident and believe in you. Heck, the oldest person to run a marathon was Fauja Singh from India who did it in 2011 at the age of 100. What’s even more amazing is that he didn’t start running until he was 89 years old!

4. Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate

If you’re taking on a longer run, gulping down some H2O is imperative to going the distance. Running makes your heart pump more blood, making your kidneys produce more urine. Keep your system flushed clean by drinking plenty of water before your run, and your marathon should see you in good form at the finish line. Also, did we say hydrate?

5. Running does not give you the license to eat as you please

“OMG, you run, right? So you must be eating whatever you like.” Nope. Sorry to burst your bubble but while running does burn calories (50% more than walking), it definitely isn’t a license to stuff your face silly. Understand how many calories your body requires to exercise and focus on eating a healthy, balanced diet. Weight losers, keep track of exercise and food intake in a journal, (there’s even an app for that) and you should be on your way to a leaner you.

6. Pound the pavement to your favourite beats

Did you know that running with your favourite music on can boost your performance by up to 15%? Of course you did, you club hopper you.  As runners around the world know, it’s a great way to stay motivated and on pace with the beat, but only if you’re a certain kind of runner. If you get amped by external stimuli, then hip hop or the latest pop music tracks could be just your thing.

7. Paying attention to your surroundings helps

If music isn’t for you then avoiding headphones and paying attention to the world zooming by does help. If you must, then use only one headphone so that you are aware of traffic, people and whatever else surrounds you. It not only keeps you safer, but also familiarises you with your trail and lets you notice new things about it that you would have otherwise missed.

8. Your body is a high-octane, high performance machine. Respect it

Your foot has 26 bones, 33 joints and 112 ligaments that need to move as a unit each time you run. It takes 200 muscles to take a step when you run. The heart creates enough pressure while running to squirt blood 30 feet. Care for yourself with enough rest and stretching before and after your run, and it will take care of you right back.

With the spring season gracing the sunny Emirate of Dubai, it’s just the right time to get outdoors and take off on your favourite running trail. Start off on the right foot with the clothing, shoes and accessories designed to help you make the most of every run.  Begin by checking out the latest running gear for women and men at Sun & Sand Sports, and burst off on your run to a healthier, happier you.