Marathon versus the Body
- williamogboke
- Jan 24, 2014
- 2 min read
The average recovery time after a marathon is 5 days. The muscles and tendons are generally sensitive, tender and tired from the run and training. The body's 'battery ' is powered by food you've eaten and oxygen. Ideally the energy will come via the carbohydrates and fat. Although when you are running long distances the body will eat into anything available when these stores are running low.
There will be very few times in ones life that the expenditure of energy will be in such demand. Water is crucial! Not only is it lost in high volumes through the lungs - but the skin too! In addition the muscles need water as part of the energy transfer. Dehydration is very common for long distance runners. In short: gulp at sensible intervals Sweaty Betty! Glucose- based drinks will also provide fast working energy, so even if you aren't generally keen on 'sweet' drinks. Marathon day should and could be an exception. Sympathy for the marathon devil? If you look at the picture closely you will see 3 or 4 faces with similar expressions… Post - marathon massages are generally more ‘tender' to receive. My favourite quote during a massage session with a marathon runner - 'William, after this - I'm sure I'd be able to handle giving birth' I am not a sadist. I am aware I may inflict pain (on your current pain) for the best long -term outcome only. Fact. Through massage we can quicken the recovery time; which in turn -will ease the pain and tenderness experienced in the following hours and days. My second favourite quote from a marathoner (actually the same girl who mentioned ‘handling pregnancy pain’) was the morning after her massage. Day 2 (post marathon) her text message was: 'William - I salute you!' You see... being freed from pain and stiffness always feels better! If you think you want to run the marathon; training is essential. There are many tried and tested training plans to prepare you and condition the body. If you think you can avoid the inclusion of physical therapy, training regimes and good nutrition, then think again. You may do more damage than good. Listen to the mechanics of your body and what they say to you. Most people I have treated do take these things seriously and see the marathon as one of their biggest accomplishments.
Charities and organisations worldwide can support and also reap the fruits of your labour. So explore, ask for tips from previous runners, get suitable running shoes and then take the plunge! Focus on the positive impacts like weight loss, increased stamina, toned body, better lung capacity and that extra feel-good of factor - achieving!
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