Distance running is also known as the Marathon race has become a popular form of exercise. However, things to note before joining a distance running includes
Heart conditions:
This is one crucial thing to be considered before one decides to join in on all the fun.
Before joining the race, approval from the doctor is first required. It is advised that those with such conditions are to consult their physician or doctor on the kind of exercise they are to partake in that won’t aggravate the heart condition. It also applies to those who think they are fit and healthy; because feeling fit and confirming you is medically fit are two different things.
Here was a list of men who died in a race
- Mike Banner was one of the men reported to have died of a heart attack in 2007 while competing in a race. It was said he was unaware he had a rare heart condition which caused his arteries to get clogged during the competition leading to a fatal the heart attack.
- Running the U.S. men’s marathon Olympic, Ryan Shay, died. At 28, he had an enlarged heart. Even though his condition was made known to him, he decided to use it to his advantage. Unfortunately, this advantage was what ultimately turned on him and led to his death.
Therefore, before one embarks on any exercise like distance running, medical check-ups must be carried out to ensure one is healthy and fit. Thereby any risks are averted.
Intake of Water:
Measures have also been taken to remind runners to drink while running. However, a substantial number of runners do not heed this advice. But who can blame them? After all, it breaks the concentration and while drinking water is critical, crossing the finish line is on the first thoughts of all athletes find themselves entertaining.
Medical research has shown that when athletes go on a long race without drink or fluid and fiercely guzzle down water after the race, they tend to lose excessive sodium when they sweat when compared to those athletes who take fluid during the race. Low sodium in the blood could lead to brain swelling, seizure, confusion, and even death. Therefore caution is to be taken in this area.
Proper Eating:
Food is also as important as water. Eating the night correctly before embarking on a long-distance race is essential. It is advised to eat food loaded with about 50 percent carbohydrate and fat, oil and vitamins to complement the remaining50 percent. The calories of the diet should not be less than 2000 calories.
Stretching:
Stretching is another essential thing to note before running a marathon. This is to be done to help the muscles fully relax and flexible thereby preventing muscle injuries or pulls while running. One has to do it right also; having a trainer is always an excellent idea.
Distance running is an enjoyable exercise and is safe if all rules are being followed, i.e., medical check-ups, proper eating, stretching before running an adequate intake of water. Its benefit includes burning of fat, strengthening of the muscles and heart as well as regulating blood supply in the body.