Tips for Fresno Runners to Avoid Injuries
Running is an excellent way to stay in shape. Many people enjoy jogging, running, and power walking in and around Fresno. However, sports injuries are common in runners, especially in the knees, ankles, and joints because of the extra strain from running on concrete sidewalks. Other common injuries for runners include torn ligaments, repetitive strain injuries, and injuries from falls.
Fortunately, there are several steps runners can take to avoid injuries as they continue to enjoy the health benefits of running.
Consult Your Physician
Before you begin any exercise program, you should consult your physician to make sure you are in good health, especially if you have not had a checkup recently. You do not want an underlying medical condition to cause an injury because you are unaware of the condition or the risk of injury.
Begin Slowly
If you are a beginner, start slowly and gradually work up to running longer distances. You do not want to overdo it the first week you are running. Injuring yourself by trying to keep the same pace as a longtime runner may result in injuries.
Pay Close Attention To Your Body
If you begin to experience unexplained symptoms, such as chest pains, cramps, or dizziness, seek immediate medical attention. Even for a healthy person, running can place a strain on the entire body. Running is great exercise, but it can also cause serious problems. Do not ignore unexplained symptoms, even if the symptoms are mild.
Add Another Sport
In addition to running, consider yoga, weightlifting, stretching, swimming, or other exercises that compliment running. Any type of exercise that helps you build muscle, strengthens your core, and helps you stay limber will help you become a better runner.
Avoid Pedestrian Accidents
One of the most serious threats to runners is drivers. Pedestrian accidents are common throughout the Central California Valley area. Drivers who are distracted, fatigued, impaired, or aggressive do not pay attention to pedestrians. Because pedestrians have no protection against the impact of the vehicle, injuries in pedestrian accidents are usually catastrophic.
To avoid a pedestrian accident, runners can take some of the same precautions that pedestrians and bicyclists take to avoid dangerous drivers:
- Cross streets at crosswalks and intersections, if possible
- Make eye contact with the driver before crossing the road to ensure the driver sees you
- Increase your visibility by wearing brightly colored clothing
- Avoid running at dawn, dusk, or night
- Carry a flashlight with you to increase visibility
- Never wear headphones or use electronic devices while running — you need to remain alert and aware of your surroundings at all times
- Run with a partner
For more tips to stay safe while you are running and to avoid pedestrian accidents, see the information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and AAA Exchange.
Call A Fresno Pedestrian Accident Attorney
If you are injured by a driver while you are running, walking, or jogging, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your injuries. Call our Fresno pedestrian accident attorney for a free case evaluation. Your first visit is no charge. We want you to have the information you need to make an informed decision about how to proceed with your pedestrian accident claim.
Call Torem & Associates at (888) 500-5000 to schedule an appointment with our Fresno accident attorney. You may also use our online contact form to request more information.
Categories: