How to Deal With 4 Common Running Issues


Updated 09/28/10 11:37 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 3 comments

Common Running Problems and Solutions

From itchy legs to charley horses, runners are prone to certain common problems. Whether you've experienced all or none of these issues, here's a quick refresher on how to deal with some of running's most common — and treatable — issues. Read more

Running Tip: Strengthen Quads With Wall Squats


Updated 06/28/11 8:58 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 14 comments

Strengthen Quads and Avoid Runner's Knee With Wall Squats

If you're a runner and you want to increase your speed, build your endurance, and have the ability to tackle hills with a breeze, you need to have strong quads. Strengthening your thighs can also prevent injuries such as runner's knee. This common injury, which often happens to new runners, is tied to a combination of weak quads and tight hamstrings and calves. Wall squats (also called wall sits) Read more

Fit Tip: Mind Your Knees


Updated 08/28/08 9:54 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 6 comments

Fit Tip: Mind Your Knees

As my mom would say, "Take care of your knees, you only get one pair," and nothing could be more true than when it comes to running. Running is a great way to burn a lot of calories and tone up that lower body, but it can also be pretty tough on your knees — it's not called runner's knee for nothing. No matter if you're an outdoor or indoor runner, one of the best things you can do for Read more

Avoid Runner's Knee


Updated 06/27/11 8:17 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 25 comments

How to Avoid Runner's Knee

If you are new to running you definitely want to be wary of developing runner's knee, an overuse injury that is twice as likely to occur in women than men. Known in the medical world as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PPFS), runner's knee causes pain in and around the knee cap (or patella). The pain is caused by tracking issues with the knee cap that irritate the bony groove the knee cap actually Read more

Tips to Prevent Runner's Knee


Updated 10/14/11 11:47 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 14 comments

Tips to Prevent Runner's Knee

Runner's knee — pain around the kneecap, especially when walking down stairs — is no fun at all and can really put a damper on your exercise routine. There are several things you can do to help prevent runner's knee from happening, such as: Take time to get your body in good condition before performing activities that stress the knees. Try to lose weight. Being overweight puts additional Read more

RX For Shin Splints: Ice Massage


Updated 01/20/12 12:07 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Treat Shin Splints With Ice Massage

Shin splints are the bane of many new runners. The tight calves that accompany mileage increases can spell pain for the lower leg. If running causes any discomfort, take time off to allow your shin splints to heal. But you need not sit idle on the sidelines while you recuperate: ice massages help, too. A serious runner, my Equinox trainer reminded me of the healing combo of ice and massage to Read more

Ways to Keep Knee Pain at Bay


Updated 01/11/12 3:19 PM · Posted by · 3 comments

What to Do to Prevent Knee Pain

When a good workout leaves my muscles sore, I know I'm getting stronger every day and revel in the pain. But when a long run leaves me with achy knees, I'm reminded that I'm getting a little bit older and a little more creaky. Unfortunately, my knees have been talking back a lot lately — just another reminder that as your age increases so does the amount of time you need to spend doing body Read more

Check Yourself: Running Form To-Do List


Updated 01/19/12 4:30 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 15 comments

Simple Tips to Improve Your Running Form

Whether you're new to running since Jan. 1 or just trying to find your fitness groove, running can be difficult to love 24/7. When my affection for running wanes, one thing that helps bring back the love is technique. When out for a run, I go through this simple list to check my form. It makes me a mindful runner, which helps not only avoid injury but also helps me find my stride once Read more

From Beginner to Expert: 4 Ways to Become a Better Runner


Updated 01/10/12 12:37 PM · Posted by · 4 comments

How to Become a Better Runner

Have you got the running bug? If you've recently committed to a running program, it may seem like there's not much prep involved, except downloading your favorite playlist. Running is a popular pastime because it doesn't require much know-how to start — just pick out your shoes and go. But that doesn't mean that there isn't technique. Whether you're starting out or never thought twice about Read more

Show Your Running Knees Some Love


Updated 12/06/11 11:19 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 4 comments

How Runners Prevent Knee Pain

Running as a convenient form of cardio may be the bee's knees, but it can leave my knees aching. Although studies have found there is no connection between running and an increased risk for arthritis, here are some easy ways to show your knees some love. Stay flexible: Tight hamstrings or quads can prevent the knee from going through its full range of motion, which can negatively impact the Read more