Running: Cheaper Than Therapy by Chas Newkey-Burden

Author:Chas Newkey-Burden
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

No fewer than 570 marathons take place in the USA each year. Around 0.5 per cent of the American population has run a marathon.

From Hot to Cold and Back Again

In times gone by, received wisdom was that the best way to relax after a long run was in a deep, hot bath. As they were out pounding the pavement, runners would enjoy imagining the long soak ahead – particularly during winter runs. What could be more agreeable?

But then experts announced that such baths were actually a fast track to injury, because the hot water would exacerbate muscle inflammation. So runners were instead advised to take colder baths, or even to bathe in a tub of ice cubes. On the positive side, this would immediately address any swelling. However, having knocked out mile after mile, the last thing most runners wanted to do was step into a freezing tub.

So the good news is that a study released by Extremes Research Group at Bangor University in Wales has put warmth back in fashion. They found that a hot bath can stimulate the immune system – a particularly important factor during heavy training, which prompts a short-term slump in immunity.

The researchers also concluded that hot baths after a series of runs helped runners to acclimatise to running on hotter days – taking 4.9 per cent off their 5k time in the study. Other benefits of a steamy soak include a reduction in blood pressure and arterial stiffness.

So, when you get back from a long run, simply put in the plug, twist the hot tap and await your orgy of bubbles and heat. You truly deserve it – enjoy!

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