Neck hurts post run, why would this be?

[Issywhizz]

I completed a run this morning, W4R1 and I’m feeling rather achey this evening, my lower back and hips kind of really ache (I’ve got problems with lower back anyway) also my neck seems to be aching. Does anyone know why this could be and how to prevent it happening from future runs? Thank you 😊

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Are you holding anything in your hands while you run? This can cause neck and shoulder aches.

Runners need good core strength to avoid back ache, so do core strength exercises if you suspect your core is not particularly strong.

Following the advice in the guide to the plan on minimising impact can reduce the impact stresses on your body.

[Issywhizz Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Ah yes, I’m holding my phone 🙈 I was seeing if I kept the running up before I invested in a holder for it. That could be it then, although it’s on the opposite side of my neck to the hand I hold my phone in?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Issywhizz]

The asymmetries of muscle tension can show up in all sorts of ways.

Hands need to be loose, not clenched, when running.

[Issywhizz Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

That’s great, thanks so much!!

Also, initially the running has been really helping my lower back but today it seems sore, is that probably due to there being more running this morning W4 R1? As you suggested, I will do some core exercises

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Issywhizz]

Who knows, but you will surely benefit from extra core work.

[Issywhizz Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you! Much appreciated advice

[Tasha99 Graduate]

Look straight ahead if you can, not down

[Issywhizz Graduate in reply to Tasha99]

Thanks 😊

[Roxdog Graduate]

I wonder if your shoulders are tense, which could make your whole upper body tense. Try pulling shoulders back and down, it helps to relax your upper body while running. That might help.

[Issywhizz Graduate in reply to Roxdog]

Thank you, I appreciate the advice. I will try this on my next run 😊

[Speedy60 Graduate]

Make sure you're upright with your shoulders down and head up, chin slightly forward. My choir teacher always tells us to imagine we're showing off a pair of diamond drop earrings. It will help you not to hunch you shoulders. 👍

[Issywhizz Graduate in reply to Speedy60]

Great, thanks. I shall wear those diamond earrings with pride on my next run, that’s a great way of remembering to hold the head up etc