Help me, Internet!
Elizabeth November 30th, 2009
Cute cartoon from Everyday People Cartoons.
I’ve really slacked off in the running department during the past fortnight. Most of it can be attributed to Life, and it’s uncanny ability to get in the way of Stuff I Should Do, but there have been a few missed opportunities because I’ve just been feeling blah about it all.
It’s all a bit stupid, considering that I only have a few more runs to go before I can cross another thingo off my list. So what’s wrong with me?
You might remember my ridiculously dramatic post last week, where I compared my post-run state to that of a dying fly. Today’s run was almost as bad, and I’m sick of feeling so crap when I’m actually really enjoying the act of running itself!
The problem seems to be stitches. It’s strange that I am suddenly developing such horrible cramps when I run, as it’s something I didn’t experience at all until just a couple of weeks ago. Today’s was so bad that it felt like a broken rib was digging into my stomach every time I took a step. Even running up and down a low traffic island was excruciating, to the point where I had trouble breathing for 15 seconds afterwards. It’s like a horrible bruise that’s getting pounded with a stick every time I move. Unsurprisingly, it is most unenjoyable.
The most frustrating part is that I didn’t feel physically tired, but had to “protect” my stupid injury by reducing my pace and pushing through it. I felt like I otherwise had the strength and stamina to run really well today. The will was there, but my diaphragm didn’t get the memo.
Has anyone beaten the battle against these cramps? I’ve read plenty of theories about what causes them, and the most likely scenario in my case is that my asthma is causing me to breathe unnaturally. I’ve been conscious of all the flowering stuff in my neighbourhood during the past few weeks, and the unavoidable way in which I suck in all their lovely pollen as I run past. I’m sure this isn’t helping my lung capacity when I need it most.
I’ve heard other theories too, such as too much salt (or too little salt), or too much water (or too little water). With advice like this is it any wonder I’m confused?
Please discuss any theories, advice, experiences or laments in the comments. I’m off for some recovery sleep!
- 101 in 1001 , C25K , Health & Fitness , Running
- Comments(6)
My trainer has told me that it is too much water and I know gym sessions where I drink all my 1l water bottle and finish with some heavy cardio (rowing, running, x-trainer) I get a stitch. I dunno if there is some sort of breathing technique out there to try (something like Alexander for breathing?) But perhaps google could be your friend?
experiment with it. try a bit more water, a bit less, see what happens
I would recommend trying to slow down your breathing, but then that’s probably just my meditation bias
Vegemite. It’s gross but suck on 1 spoonful of Vegemite and the cramp will vanish in no time. I literally lived with a jar of Vegemite and a spoon next to my bed for the last 5 months of pregnancy.
It’s gross but it works (and now it comes in those little individual serves – perfect for the pocket!)
Much Love.
Thanks for your comments, everyone!
Fifikins: Google has been both my friend and my enemy on this topic! Everybody seems to have a different theory, and most of these theories contradict each other. I don’t think my problem is that I drink too much water though. I drink my usual 2-3L during the day, but don’t take any with me when I run.
Ralf: I suspect it’s the depth of my breathing that is the problem, not the rate. When I’m feeling asthmatic my breathing tends to be more shallow, and I think that’s why my diaphragm complains. Honestly though, there are other muscles in my body with more right to complain!
Trish: Can’t you just picture me running down Bridge Rd with a jar of Vegemite and a spoon? I can! Actually, in case there’s any merit in the salt theory I might try some Vegemite half an hour before my next run. But only because it’s the most Aussie remedy I’ve heard so far.
Hi-e. I’m soooo not a runner, but I remember once (in primary school) I was told if you run with you arms above your head it will make the stitch go. I have only ever been in one run, and I got a stitch in the middle of it. Although it made me feel lick a complete idiot I tried the running with arms up thing and it worked! Give it a try, it’s more portable than Vegemite!
Louise: Actually, I did this once or twice yesterday! It did do a pretty good job, but I did resemble one of the members of the Villlage People who had become stuck mid-way through YMCA.
I have an active imagination.