4 Ways to Correct Bad Jogging Posture
Jogging is excellent for weight loss and stress relief. But it is also hard on your hips, hamstrings, and low back, especially if you hit the trails. Plantar fasciitis, shin splints, chronic neck pain, and Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) are common injuries from jogging with bad posture.
Capitol Rehab of Crofton can help you exercise longer and reduce your recovery times between workouts. Keep reading to learn about exercises you can do each day to improve your form and jog healthier.
Do Warm-Up Exercises
You do not need to do intense stretching before you jog, but you should never exercise on cold muscles. Perform at least 5 minutes of warm-up drills to create space in your lower body and improve your flexibility. Exercise bands are also helpful for opening the hips and inner thighs.
Strengthen Your Glutes
A weak gluteus maximus causes poor posture and stresses other areas of your body, such as the latissimus dorsi. Jogging on an overworked latissimus dorsi maligns your shoulders and causes low back pain. Target this critical muscle group with daily toning exercises like donkey kicks and glute bridges.
Fix Upper Crossed Syndrome
Joggers sometimes suffer from Upper Crossed Syndrome (UCS), a posture problem resulting from a tight chest wall and overactive lower trapezius and neck muscles. Make it a habit to perform daily stretches that fight UCS and forward head posture. If stretching does not help, an experienced chiropractor in Crofton can fix your rounded shoulders and teach you how to stand up tall.
Stabilize Your Core
There are many parts to the core, which wraps around your midsection. Poorly toned abdominal muscles and obliques throw off your gait. Your core also contains the Erector Spinae, a triad of muscles that support the spine and help you execute a neutral foot-strike style. Your Crofton chiropractor will condition your core to help stabilize you during exercise.
Maximize Your Workouts With Chiropractic Care
Exercising with bad posture is a surefire way to saddle yourself with long-term injuries. Before you end up with a pulled back or a strained knee, seek holistic care for your posture problems at Capitol Rehab of Crofton. Dr. McClenny uses gentle chiropractic adjustments to make your workouts safe and stress-free. Call us today at 410-834-8135 for more information, and don't forget to take our virtual office tour!