5 MUST KNOW FACTS ABOUT RUNNING
Running is one of the best exercises for building endurance. However, you should know these five facts before incorporating running in your fitness regime.
Running is a great exercise for people living in countries with cold climate. The people living in Europe, North America or other regions with cold climate have a predominant Kapha (Earth + Water) elemental body. Running helps in balancing Kapha. Running thus helps in burning calories, improving endurance and reducing sluggishness in the body. Tennis, Baseball, Basketball, American Football, Ice Hockey and other athletic games are well suited for people living in cold climate. On the contrary, Running is really bad for people living in countries with hot climate. The people living in South Asia, Middle East, Africa and other regions with hot and humid climate have a predominant Vata (Wind + Space) elemental body. Running aggravates the Vata which can be dangerous for functioning of key joints like knees and ankles. People in countries with hot climate should resort to moderate to brisk walking. Running can wear down their knees and other joint in just few years. They should adopt sports which demand less of athletic running.
Runners need special nutrition to enhance performance and expedite healing. The diet of runner must include liberal quantity of any virgin cold pressed vegetable oil like Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Coconut Oil or Mustard Oil. All the natural foods rich in Potassium, Calcium, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Folic Acid and Vitamin C are essential for a runner. This will help in keeping the cartilage in health and will provide lubrication to the joints.
Runners need massage for strengthening the muscles. Massaging the feet, ankles and knees with Castor Oil is extremely beneficial for runners. Alternatively, massaging heated organic sesame oil also works in strengthening the legs and joints. Massage of these two oils helps in healing torn tissues and calming agitated nerves.
A five minute warm up and protective clothing (pelvic and waist support) is must for athletic running.
Shoes are an important gear for a runner. The shoes must be replaced if a significant dent is seen either on toes or heel. An imbalance under the feet can affect musculoskeletal system of the entire body.
