Every single runner will suffer some unexplained niggle or ache at some point in their training. The most important thing is to look for a cause and seek out a remedy.
We dare to discuss a few of the yuckier running problems and offer a solution that will see you back on track – happier than ever.
Six of the worst
Running can cause strange things to happen to your body. And sometimes you might wonder if you’re the only person on earth to be experiencing the symptoms. But take some solace in the fact that you won’t be the first, nor the last, to be worrying about an inexplicable rub, flaky feet or a desperate need to rush to the toilet.
Here we reveal some of the worries, causes and remedies of six irritations and issues that you’ve always wanted to ask but somehow never dared to do so.
Runner's trots
What on earth: Well, if it happens to Paula Radcliffe then you know it must happen to other runners. In fact it’s thought that up to 40% of runners have been hit by the sudden need to do a number 2 while running. But even so it’s not a much-discussed topic and it can be horribly embarrassing. Most commonly you’ll experience abdominal cramps or diarrhea during or immediately after longer runs and races.
Causes: No-one really knows why it happens but there are suggestions that it has something to do with your digestive system being bounced around as you run. Running also boosts the hormones that help to make things move in your large intestines, and it’s thought that dehydration can add to the problem. Other causes could be a lactose intolerance.
Remedy: Make sure you’re properly hydrated. Think about reducing or cutting out dairy products. If possible, always try to have a bowel movement before setting off. And if it always happens on a particular training run try to plan in a public toilet stop.
Runner’s wind
What on earth?: A more common but similar malady to “runner’s trots”. Morning outings are much more likely to reverberate to the sounds of long and repeated farting sounds.
Causes: Most likely the same roots as “runner’s trots”. Farting is caused by wind escaping from the intestines and when you run it is sometimes more difficult to control. Remedies: Run alone so no-one notices or let it out and apologise to your training partner. Holding wind in will only lead to more discomfort and possible to a bout of “runner’s trots”.
Runner's nipple
What on earth: Easily identified as sore, stingy, raw or bloody nipples following a long run. A similar problem can also occur under the arms, between thighs and around d the groin.
Causes: A damp or rough t-shirt rubbing against your nipples as you run along. The repeated chafing combined with sweat does all the damage.
Remedy: Avoid heavy cotton fabric tops and choose clothing made from wick-away materials, such as Dri-Fit or Cool-Max. If you’re taking part in a long race smear Vaseline or similar on to you nipples (or anywhere there might be some chafing such as under the arms or between the thighs). Or buy NipGuards for maximum protection. Women should make sure their sports bras are made from wick-away fabrics and that they fit neatly and tightly.
Athlete’s foot
What on earth: Flaky skin between your toes or along the side of your feet that can be inflamed and itchy – but definitely unattractive.
Causes: A parasitic fungal infection of the epidermis that is a communicable disease, say the medics. In other words Athlete’s foot is it can be transmitted between people. This infection likes warm, moist areas such as shared bathrooms or changing rooms. It can even be transmitted by sharing trainers or towels.
Remedy: Avoid or take preventative action in environments where the infection might be passed on. Don’t share trainers, for example. If you have a bout of athelete’s foot there are numerous creams and gel remedies on the market. Or you can visit your doctor for advice.
Reduced libido
What on earth?: When too much running leads to a lack of interest in sex.
Causes: Research on the hormonal effects of exercise has shown that over-doing cardio workouts, such as running, can deplete the body of sex hormones.
Remedies: Moderate your running. The right amount of exercise, as well as improved diet and sleep patterns, can actually lead to an improved sex drive. As the saying goes: Everything in moderation.
Generally “foosty” feet
What on earth: Black or bruised toe nails, missing nails, thickened nails, malodorous feet, hardened skin on the end of toes or side of the feet, corns, and a number of other foot nasties that can make running painful, footcare a life-long chore – and send people sprinting away from you screaming because of the smell.
Causes: Running in ill-fitting trainers, especially when toes bang hard against the inside of the trainer. A lack or care and attention to your feet. Old, sweaty socks. Old trainers. Remedies: Ensure you have your trainers expertly fitted at a specialist shoe shop. Always buy trainers with a thumb’s width of space at the front. Give your feet lots of TLC, including massaging with foot creams and drying with talc. Replace trainers regularly and invest in Sneakerballs, which soak up unwanted trainer odour. Buy running-specific socks for less sweating. If it gets any worse, see your doctor.