For many of us, spring and warmer weather mark the return of running outdoors. There are a few things to keep in mind when getting started. Start back slowly. Progress back into your mileage and training appropriately; doing too much too soon can increase your chance of injury. Check your shoes. Guidelines suggest replacing your running shoes every 500800 km. The foam cushioning of the shoe breaks down with time, not only mileage, so changing them yearly is a good idea. Address any injuries. Don’t start off your running season with an injury that might set you back mid-season. Good mobility of the thoracic spine and lower extremity, as well as hip and lower extremity strength, can be integral to injury prevention. Physiotherapists can help improve mobility through manual therapy and prescribe targeted exercises for mobility and lower extremity chain control. Let’s get you back on the road!

Sarah Bleichert, PrairieTrailPhysio.ca