Lets get straight to the point:
Some do, and some don’t. Some people are predisposed to have knee problems, while others are not.
Marathon training can expose those who have weaker knees more quickly than almost any other activity.
However, you can do some things to reduce the risk of getting bad knees through marathon training.
Table of Contents
Marathon Training Rest Days Are Not Just for the Muscles
Rest days are just as important during marathon training as days with hard sessions. There is a common misconception that rest days exist only for muscles to recuperate, but this could not be further from the truth.
For example, people predisposed to knee problems may be more eager to take days off or reduce their intensity because it will be better for their knees; in actuality, rest days cannot be seen as a preventative measure against aggravated conditions of the knee joint.
Therefore, rest days exist not only for our tired muscles and minds but also for our joints.
Cross-Training Can Reduce The Risk
Elliptical training is one form of cross-training that can reduce the risk of an exercise-related injury.
Ellipticals allow for a low-impact cardio workout, making them an ideal component for avoiding joint stiffness and increasing overall flexibility.
Ellipticals are similar to the treadmill in that they increase heart rate. Still, the reduced impact on the joints and bones makes them more suitable for individuals predisposed to injuries or those simply looking to add variety to their workouts.
Cross-training with elliptical machines increases cardiovascular endurance and decreases the risks associated with physical activities.
Different Forms Of Knee Issues
Runners Knee and IT Band dysfunction are common knee issues that can cause significant discomfort. Runners Knee is an irritation of the kneecap caused by prolonged activity such as running or jumping.
IT Band dysfunction comes from imbalances in the strength or flexibility of the muscles surrounding the hip, which can create strain on the band.
It is essential to listen to your body and recognize when you have done too much – both
Runners Knee and IT Band issues can develop due to overexertion or excessive repetition. Listen to your body and practice moderation for a pain-free lifestyle.
Marathon Training: When To Stop
Marathon training can be a great way to stay fit and maintain an active lifestyle, but it is essential to know when to stop.
A good rule of thumb is to listen to your body.
If you start getting overly sore or tired during your training, take a few days off and reevaluate your intensity level that day. With rest and proper nutrition, you should feel better within no time.
Knowing when to push yourself and rest is essential for a runner to prevent injuries. Running too hard or too far can cause muscle tears, overuse injuries, and fractures, all things that should be avoided while training for a marathon.
You can tune into how you feel after each workout; if you are tired or sore more often than not, please take some time off running and focus on low-impact activities like swimming or yoga. Marathon training can be grueling if done incorrectly, so ensure you listen to your body throughout the process!
Does Marathon Training Help Your Knees?
Running has long been deemed an effective way to improve physical health and stay fit, but many wonder if it is detrimental to their knees.
Fortunately, new studies have found that running doesn’t nessecerily damage the knees.
Research indicates that people who regularly run can strengthen the muscles supporting their joints while simultaneously reducing body weight, which helps protect them from deteriorating knee conditions and surgeries in the future. With its proven benefits, running remains one of the best ways to stay in shape, improve fitness, lose weight, and keep your knees healthy.
Final Thoughts
I had a slight knee problem going into the Paris marathon in 2019. Not painful, just a small ticking sound from my right knee while running 9-minute miles. I ignored it during training (obviously). After the marathon, the ticking had gone! I don’t understand what happened, and the ticking has not returned.
There are many reasons to cross-train, and the benefits of doing so are vast. Cross-training can help reduce the risk of exercise-related injury, increase cardiovascular endurance, and decrease the risks associated with physical activities. It is essential to listen to your body and recognize when you have done too much – both Runners Knee and IT Band issues can develop due to overexertion or excessive repetition.
Knowing when to push yourself and rest is essential for a runner to prevent injuries. Running too hard or too far can cause muscle tears, overuse injuries, and fractures, all things that should be avoided while training for a marathon.
You can tune into how you feel after each workout; if you are tired or sore more often than not, please take some time off running and focus on low-impact activities like swimming or yoga. Marathon training can be grueling if done incorrectly, so ensure you listen to your body throughout the process!
