Self-Healing Heart(01 of09)
Open Image ModalRunner's Face(02 of09)
Open Image ModalCrackling Knees(03 of09)
Open Image ModalDead Butt Syndrome(04 of09)
Open Image Modal“There’s been a lot of hype lately about running being a literal ‘pain in the butt’,” Burns says. Pain in the butt, or “dead butt syndrome,” refers to the formally named condition gluteus medius tendinosis, which is an inflammation of the tendons in your rear. This pain doesn’t strike only runners — any rigorous activity can trigger it — but distance runners are among the athletes most likely to experience it.Burns says that overuse can be a factor, which is a sign from your body that you should slow down or take a break altogether. Pulled muscles, muscle strains, and hip and pelvis misalignment are other culprits. The pain most commonly starts in the glutes and shoots down the back of the leg, and it can worsen over time if you don’t stop to take care of it.Burns advises taking the same measures with your achy bum as you would with a bum knee. Don’t drastically change your running style or stride in hopes of deflecting pain, just give your body some good old-fashioned rest and TLC, a pain reliever like ibuprofen, and ice. Dead butt shouldn’t sideline you for too long, but talk to your doctor if the pain doesn’t subside after about a week. (credit:Shutterstock)
Black Toenails(05 of09)
Open Image ModalAre you going through a Goth phase, or is that not black nail polish on your big toe? If you find yourself with an unintentional (one-toed) pedicure after a hard run, you’re not alone. Many runners suffer from black toenails, which are caused by bleeding underneath the nail.Improperly fitted or too-small footwear is usually the culprit. “Two of the most important pieces of equipment I own are my shoes,” Burns says. “The correct shoe can make all the difference.” An ill-fitting shoe can rub harshly on your feet, eventually causing enough friction to bruise or bloody the toes. Remedy the problem by buying your running shoes a size larger, or talking to experienced runners or personal trainers at your local gym for shoe recommendations. (credit:Shutterstock)
Chafing(06 of09)
Open Image ModalThe sporting goods industry has been kind to women’s chests, producing sports bras in every shape imaginable. But because men don’t have the protection of a sports bra, their sensitive nipples can chafe easily during long-distance training. Burns says he has seen many male runners sporting bruised or bloody chests after a marathon, and he advises them to use petroleum jelly or bandages to protect their nipples during long runs.Female runners commonly chafe along the bikini line — especially if they wear thong underwear. The ropelike fabric can rub and irritate that sensitive area, and excess sweat makes the problem worse. To protect your nether regions, choose comfort over fashion while working out. Look for undergarments made of fabrics with natural wicking properties, like nylon or mesh. (credit:Shutterstock)
Runny Nose(07 of09)
Open Image ModalWhen you go running, does your nose follow suit? A 2006 study in the Journal Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology found that 56 per cent of people got the sniffles while running outdoors. This condition is called exercise-induced rhinitis, and it’s probably caused by the increased air flow that you inhale as your breathing rate quickens, which sends your nose into mucus-producing overdrive. Also, the weather has a serious impact: Both cool air and dry air have been found to increase nasal mucus production.Don’t let your running nose interfere with your running schedule. Consider taking an antihistamine to dry out nasal passages prior to your workout, tucking tissues into the pockets of your shorts, or switching to indoor training. (credit:Shutterstock)
Overactive Bladder(08 of09)
Open Image ModalFound yourself with the “gotta-go” feeling only a couple miles in — though you went right before you started your run? This could be due to a couple of factors. Increased blood flow from the cardiovascular workout can speed up other body systems as well, including your kidneys’ production of urine. Also, the urge to pee may not be what it seems, Burns says. If you’re dehydrated, your body may hold on to this concentrated reserve of urine, creating a sensation similar to the one you get when you have to urinate.If this is a problem, don’t stop hydrating, as water is essential to a healthy workout. Instead, plan ahead to scope out pit stops along your route, and talk to your doctor if it becomes a consistent issue. (credit:Shutterstock)
Runner's High(09 of09)
Open Image ModalAs devotees will tell you, running isn’t all aches and pains. Perhaps one of the greatest side effects of a runner’s lifestyle — besides the lean physique and cardiovascular health — is the natural “runner’s high” that you get from pounding the pavement. “The psychological benefits of running are enormous — runner’s euphoria is a real, proven benefit,” Burns says.According to a study in the journal Cerebral Cortex, running really does produce feel-good endorphins in the areas of the brain associated with emotion. The study found that the time and intensity of running required to achieve runner’s high differs from person to person, as does the intensity of the high. But in general, researchers found most people to be happier and more relaxed during and after runs. The same endorphins that produce runner’s high also relieve stress and boost mood. (credit:Shutterstock)