New research helps explain why Chiropractic uniquely benefits short and long-distance runners.

Research published in January proved that an adjustment increased muscle strength and corticospinal excitability to muscles in elite athletes.  The increased muscle force and the increased corticospinal excitability helped athletes gain an edge over their competitors. Utilizing Chiropractic spinal adjustments as part of training also enabled athletes to train harder and with greater strength and precision.

Chiropractic care helps runners in a multitude of ways.

The component that the majority of athletes and coaches understand involves the improvement of motion and biomechanics. Chiropractic adjustments improve motion in the spine and joints, increasing the ease of movement and efficiency of body biomechanics. Greater mobility and range of motion minimizes the risk of injury within the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Chiropractic also improves postural and spinal alignment. The improvement of alignment minimizes unnecessary wear and tear on joints like good axel alignment on a car. Research also indicated that Chiropractic care maximizes muscle strength and corticospinal excitability. This means that an adjustment improves the amount of electrical activity from the brain to the body by improving alignment and movement of the spine. The increased electrical activity produces greater strength in the muscles of the leg.

The spine maintains an intimate relationship with the brain and central nervous system.

Proper alignment and movement help maximize the function of the spine and nervous system. The rigorous training involved with daily running creates a need for routine nervous system maintenance. Wear and tear on the spine and body biomechanics from hitting the pavement necessitate proper care for the spine and posture.

The most foundational aspect of training involves the body’s ability to continually work, recover, and improve on the previous day, week, and month. Passionate runners deserve every opportunity to maximize training and recovery while limiting the risk of injury. Healing and repair between long runs or short bouts of intense training require the body to be functioning at optimal levels. Key components like nutrition, sleep, and running biomechanics become more enhanced and productive when combined with Chiropractic. Running for recreation or competition become metaphors for longevity and endurance on both the track and in real life. Chiropractic offers the opportunity to not only perform at peak levels but also maintain a long-term lifestyle that allows runners to maintain their passion and their health into advanced age. Whether training for a race or for the long-term life experience, Chiropractic helps finish the race well.

The post Runners Gain a Competitive Advantage with Chiropractic first appeared on Chiropractor Broken Arrow.

“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” While Confucius may not have been a runner, his wisdom applies to the practice of it. A 2013 study shows that even five to 10 minutes a day of slower-paced running (or jogging) is enough to add years to your life. Running has numerous health benefits that not only make you look better, but feel better too.

Running is like the superfood of exercise. Even a moderate running routine will:

• Increase lung capacity
• Lower or prevent high blood pressure
• Make your immune system stronger
• Build bone density and strengthen joints
• Relieve stress
• Improve sleep quality
• Clear up skin
• Reduce the risk of certain cancers

For most runners, it’s more about how running makes them feel than it is to stay in shape. “Runner’s high” is a very real thing, and the hormones that are released while running give a boost to confidence and can reduce or eliminate depression. In addition, when you run, you reduce stress. Not to mention, it can lessen or get rid of common stress-related health issues, like “bad belly fat” and tension headaches, which also contributes to better health and a longer life.

While it’s recommended to get at least 150 minutes a week of aerobic exercise, every little bit helps. As little as 50 minutes of aerobic activity is enough to have a positive impact. Studies show that the “sweet spot” for reaping the maximum level of benefits is 2.5 hours of running per week. Have you tried running and it just isn’t for you? Walking, cycling, and even the elliptical machine, if done regularly, will improve health and longevity.

As with all things, moderation is key, especially when beginning a new diet or workout plan. The benefits of running are numerous, but make sure to have the right gear and the right information before you begin. Speaking to your physician and working with your chiropractor to promote your new (or ongoing) fitness plan is sure to boost its success.  If you have questions regarding your new exercise routine or just want to speak about your health in general, give us a call at 918-940-4630 and you will be set-up with a consultation with Dr. Ring.  We love meeting new people and help to empower change in their lives.  Until then, get outside and get moving; your body and mind will thank you.

The post How Does Running Impact Your Health? first appeared on Chiropractor Broken Arrow.