Question:

I have been running now for several months, I try to go every other day and am able to run on average 1.5 to 2 miles straight. The longest I have gone is 3.5miles. It seems in the last couple of weeks it has been harder for me, I seem to poop out sooner. I don't know how much the heat plays into it or my menstrual cycle, or just what is affecting my going the distance. Any help you can give me is appreciated!

Kirsten

Answer :

Dear Kirsten,

Thanks for your query. There are several reasons why you may be feeling the way you have been when running:

Diet and hydration: are you eating enough of the right “fuel” for the training you are doing. The dietary requirements for running and weight training are quite different so it is important that you are eating enough for both activities. A nutritionist (preferably one who deals with sportspeople) would be able to advise you on this. Similarly, it is important that you are drinking enough water – over and above the recommended 1.5 to 2 litres needed for a normal sedentary lifestyle. Poor hydration can leave you feeling sluggish and affect your performance. The time of day that you train can also influence how much you are able to do. Don’t push yourself to train if you are overtired as you are more likely to sustain injuries.  Have you changed the intensity of your training recently e.g. speed of runs, hill training, increased your weights? All of these factors can affect your cardiovascular response.  Recent bout of illness e.g. viral infection or flu. Something like this can often have a lasting effect on your respiratory function, long after the primary symptoms have cleared up. If all of the variables I have mentioned have been taken into account and you still continue to feel this way, I would recommend that you discontinue training and get your GP to check you over.

 Kind regards

 Angela Benjamin MSc MCSP SRP

Chartered Physiotherapist