Week 5 - how not to get a stitch

[Claudiecat]

Find Michael Johnson very motivating. Advice on how not to get a stitch really helpful as this is what put me off running outside when younger.

[Hidden]

Good hydration all the time, don't eat too much before a run, warm up properly and don't run too fast. Good luck!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Warm-up.

Slow & Steady.. and then some...

Control your breathing: The faster you run, the more oxygen your body needs. Irregular and shallow breathing can provoke a side stitch.

Breathe: Proper breathing can help. Relaxed and don't overthink it...

Apply pressure: Press your hand on the painful area and release the pressure while breathing out. Conscious, deep breathing helps when trying this strategy.

Shift down a gear: Slow down.

Stop for a moment and stretch: Small stretching exercises . Just lean your upper body to the side and stretch a little farther with each exhalation.

Stop and bend your upper body forward: To relax the diaphragm and the abdominal cavity, you can put your arms above your head while inhaling & then lean your upper body forward while exhaling and let your arms dangle.

Some of this may help... and Hidden has given great tips too!

[WillsMum68 Graduate]

I agree about Michael’s advice although I felt I could have used it a lot earlier in the programme!

[Saladays Graduate]

I love love love Michael Johnson as the voice on the app. Absolutely inspired choice. It actually made me laugh to hear him congratulating me on my 60 second run knowing he is a gadzillion times champion athlete (I do kinda wonder if he was rolling his eyes recording this). But I don't care because he has got me to week 5 and I am very grateful for alll the advice I can get!!!