I'm 42 trying to get back in the my running. The last time I ran was ten years ago with a weekly mileage average of 25-30 per week.
Now, I just want to train for 5Ks and 10KS, but after my runs, my lower stiffens.
I'm not in pain, just stiff!
I've tried yoga and pilates and focus slowly when the segments involve back stretches.
I just don't know what this is. It's never happened before.
Have other runners (new and experienced) had stiff lower backs?
2007-03-20 13:54:00 · 4 answers · asked by Snuggly 2 in Sports ➔ Running
I had back pain and stiffness the first few days after I started track. And I am young. I just started stretching my back good before I ran because i wasn't built up to it. After a while i just got over it, and it hasn't came back.
2007-03-20 14:34:02 · answer #1 · answered by Llama 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have been running for about 15 years and have always had a problem with a stiff back. Mine is because of arching my back when I run- it gets worse when i run longer milage. You might be doing the same and continually stretching your back will help ease the stiffness.
We have an inversion table which hooks your ankles and allows you to turn upside down, relieving stress from your back. You don't have to flip all the way upside down, just far enough that you feel your back muscles stretching. It stretches your back far more than anything I've tried. It is very relaxing and honestly they aren't they expensive.
If you aren't convinced of actually owning one you can always try them out at a fitness store. They'll let you try anything there and you'll see right away how well it is able to help you out. I strongly recommend them. My husband is in his 40's, started running and had horrible back pain and stiffness. This has helped him remarkably well. Hope you have some luck with this!
2007-03-21 15:14:36 · answer #2 · answered by schmidtee 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, using old muscles in a new way = stiffness. Try stretching the back muscles prior to the run. Ibuprophen will help afterward. Tai Chi is very beneficial for overall stretching and range-of-motion.
2007-03-20 21:00:25 · answer #3 · answered by onparadisebeach 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Problems with the back while running sometimes could be the result of poor form. The back usually hurts when you run on you heels, meaning that you break stride with the back of your feet. As a result, all the impact your heel is taking is going up to your back. The shock could either be tweeking your lower back, or just making your lower back muscles tighten up so they don't move around so much.
Fix the form.
2007-03-20 22:18:16 · answer #4 · answered by kilmasil 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋