Runners always have their preferred terrain of choice. Whether it be running in the woods, running on the sand, running on a treadmill or running on the pavement, however not all of that terrain is good for every runner. There is one running ‘terrain’ though that literally every runner can benefit from–the water.
The water has been used for a very long time to help rehabilitate runners and non-runners who suffer from injury as a way to help get muscles stronger.
When in fact, running and exercising in the water could be the very secret to breaking your personal record. How about that claim!?! Sounds pretty crazy, right? Okay here us out. Water running requires the same muscles to function without the harsh consequences of gravity, like the impact your body takes each and every time to land your foot on the ground.
If you are ready to take your run into the water there are two different types of running you can start off with:
Shallow Water Running
Shallow water running requires you to stand in waist-deep water while running across the bottom of the pool. Depending on the pool you may need to stick to the shallow end for this one. Although it may feel like you are going back and forth a lot due to the shallow end not being very large, typically, this is the best place to start.
Deepwater Running
Deepwater running requires you to standing in deep enough water so that your feet don’t touch the bottom of the pool. This form of water running works the same muscles as shallow water running but requires more effort to move any sort of distance. It is also helpful to use a floatation device too.
Tips for Water Running
- When starting off with water running a good goal to have is to try and run for 5 minutes consecutively without stopping. Once you feel like this is getting more doable or easy then increase the time.
- Try your hardest not to lean forward when running in the water. Your body is going to want to do this right away to help you get through the water. The real challenge is to resist your body from leaning forward. Remain as upright as possible the whole time.
- To really challenge yourself you can try adding resistance to your body too while you’re running in the water.
- And go ahead and go for a little swim before or after too, swimming is a great workout and you can really help improve your swimming skills and running skills in the water at the same time.
