running tips

Top 5 things to consider BEFORE you start running

Top 5 things to consider BEFORE you start running

Top 5 things to consider BEFORE you start running 1000 667 Ace Health Centre

This year, Ace Health Centre has entered a team for the Gold Coast Marathon. The Gold Coast Marathon weekend is July 6-7 and includes a range of distances for all ages and abilities!

For the kids, there are two races- a 2km and a 4km dash. For the big kids, there are the Gold Coast Airport fun run (5.7km), Southern Cross University Run (10km), Asics Half Marathon (21.1km) and the Gold Coast Marathon (42.2km). Ace Health Centre has a number of entrants in the Asics Half Marathon as well as two runners who are attempting their first ever Marathon,

There are lots of things to consider when you are planning your next (or your first) running event of any length! It is all well and good to have a goal in mind, but you need time to physically prepare your body and your mind for what you will endure on race day.

With the Gold Coast Marathon fast approaching maybe some of you are slowly but surely starting to panic because of the lack of training or because they haven’t trained at all. Something our head physio knows a thing or two about as well!

Scrambling to maximize her preparation time, Amelia compiled a list of things she really needs to get in check BEFORE starting her GC Marathon training program to maximize her chances to cross that finish line on July 7.

Small but crucial little details such as the right footwear, weather or mood, made it into her list. Despite her knowledge as a physiotherapist, Amelia found out the hard way and made mistakes you can avoid!

Here are Amelia’s top 5 things to consider before running. Read them, learn them and never forget them

 

1. ARE YOUR SHOES THE RIGHT SHOES FOR YOU?

Podiatrist are experts in all things feet! Before you start any kind of new exercise, be sure to make an appointment with a podiatrist.

They will:

– assess your gait

– evaluate your current footwear

– recommend the perfect shoes for you

– suggest where to buy the right shoes (we can’t rate anyone higher than Athlete’s Foot Pacific Fair)

– discuss the need for orthotics if required

– flag any biomechanical issues that may require further intervention from a physiotherapist, exercise physiologist, remedial massage therapist or strength and conditioning coach.

 

2. ARE YOU STRONG AND FIT ENOUGH TO START RUNNING?

Over the years, running has developed a bit of a reputation for injuries. However, most running injuries occur due to overuse. If you continue to run on structures that are not strong enough to take the excessive force that running can cause, you are an injury waiting to happen! Get into the gym and build up some baseline strength and fitness before you attempt to tackle running. If you are clueless on where to start, see a physiotherapist for an assessment and to run a specific strength program.

 

3. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE WEATHER?

If you want to reduce your risk of injury when running, be sure to not only listen to what the weatherman has to say but also take a look outside on the day. Too hot? Wait till the afternoon to cool down a little. Too rainy? We live in Queensland- it won’t last long. Running in excessive heat is not recommended, especially for novice runners. Save yourself the pain and the risk of heat stroke, and wait for more suitable weather before you take on a run. Running in the rain can create slippery surfaces and puddles- both of which can lead to a fall or trip.

 

4. ARE YOU FUELING YOUR BODY FOR RUNNING?

We recommend that EVERYONE spends some time with a dietician to create an ideal eating plan for you. Consuming the right food can provide you with the fuel required for all activities, running included. As you then increase your running distances, a sports dietician can teach you more about substrate usage and when gels and fluids may improve your performance.

 

5. HAVE YOU GOT A PROGRESSIVE PROGRAMME IN PLACE?

Sure you could just run 10km every day from now until the day of the race, but there are far more superior training programs out there. Your training program should allow for enough time for the goal event (hurry up;) ), and should gradually increase work volume. There will be periods of scheduled rest and cross training to reduce the chance of overuse injuries, and it should be malleable, should injuries arise. A physiotherapist, running coach or decent podiatrist should be able to help you out with a comprehensive training program.

If you haven’t started your marathon training, then you have to start now! Amelia’s tips will help you to get the most out of a very short timeline. Who says there are no shortcuts to success?

Top 5 Gold Coast Running Tracks to prepare for the 2019 Gold Coast Marathon

Top 5 Running Tracks to prepare for the Gold Coast Marathon

Top 5 Running Tracks to prepare for the Gold Coast Marathon 1000 563 Ace Health Centre

The countdown is on; In just a little bit over a month, a lot of you reading will (hopefully) be crossing the finish line at this year’s Gold Coast Marathon. Whether you are an avid runner or a first-timer, preparation is always key to a successful marathon! By this stage of your marathon preparation, the runs are getting longer, and most people are getting a little bored or uninspired by your usual running routes. If this is you, we can totally relate! No need to worry though- we have searched all over the beautiful Gold Coast and handpicked our top 5 Gold Coast Running tracks to keep you motivated for the final leg!

 

5. Emerald Lakes Circuit

It isn’t the longest run, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in scenery! Not only that, but Emerald Lakes is home to some beautiful cafes and shaded rest stops that will keep you energized and rested. The loop is also ideal for interval training!

4. Hedges Ave

One of the better known Gold Coast running paths (and part of the Gold Coast Marathon track), Hedges Avenue is packed full of cyclists and runners on a Saturday and Sunday morning! Join the crowd and check out your competition, before finishing off with a quick dip in the ocean or a replenish your energy with one of the Gold Coasts finest Acai Bowls in Nobby’s.

 

3. Burleigh headland

Arguably one of the Gold Coast’s most beautiful beaches, Burleigh has more to offer than its bars and restaurants. Burleigh Headland is a shaded, scenic and dog-free pathway that can lead you either north to the beach pathway towards North Burleigh or south to Tallebugera Creek. For a nice, easy flat run, take the lower track but if you are feeling brave and want to add in some hills, try a few of the undulating circuits. Just remember that there are no water stations on the mountain itself so take a water bottle!

 

2. Main Beach Federation Walk

If you are not into crowds, then this is the running track for you! This track will take you along the beachside from Main Beach to the Spit. You can hear the sound of the waves and spy some wildlife along the way. There are a few circuits intertwined down this path. Though if you stick to the main path and you can’t get lost!

 

1. Currumbin to Coolangatta

This has to be our favourite Gold Coast running track for so many reasons! The path from Currumbin runs right alongside the beach down to Coolangatta. You get all the perks of running on the beach, without having to navigate the sand! The wide, flat, smooth pathways make it a perfect long-run course for runners of all levels.

 

So there you have it- our Top 5 Gold Coast Running Tracks. Don’t just take our word for it; check them out for yourself! If you are interested in running the Gold Coast Marathon or Half Marathon and want to surround yourself with a supportive team to get you prepared, come see one of our Physios or Exercise Physiologists at ACE Health Centre. 

Runners wearing different types of running shoes

6 Important Points To Consider When Buying Running Shoes

6 Important Points To Consider When Buying Running Shoes 1000 743 Ace Health Centre

There are a few things we encourage you to think about before you buy a new pair of running shoes.  A few simple checks, a tweak here and there and an expert’s eye, examining your feet, can work wonders and ensures you will buy the best fit for your feet.

There are a lot of brands and even more styles for you to choose out there.

Running Shoes are basically all made for the same purpose but target slightly different issues or support various areas of your foot, which can make the whole process a little bit confusing.

Your-Running-Style-determines-the-footwear-you-need

The more you land on your rear foot, the more cushioning, support and heel pitch you need.

But you are not alone! This guide is here to help you find exactly what you are looking for and narrow down the endless supply of choices to not only enhance your performance but also to keep you injury free.

This next section covers nearly everything you need to know to get the right shoes for your feet. Use this guide and a recommendation from your Podiatrist, and you will never find yourself standing confused in front of a wall full of running shoes ever again.

1. Get a running shoe according to your foot type

  • Supination

If you have a supination foot type, then a natural shoe will be the right fit for your feet. Your new pair of running shoes should have a slightly wider last to create stability and to prevent the shoe from giving way on the lateral border when put into action. If this sounds like your type of feet, then look out for a shoe with adequate cushioning to prevent ankle sprains and other nagging ankle injuries. Without favouring any particular brand, our podiatrists as well as our patients have been quite happy with the Brooks Dyad runners and would recommend them to anyone with this particular foot type.

  • Neutral

Consider yourself lucky if you have a neutral foot type because you are an easy one to please! Nothing too fancy. Maybe just something with a little bit more flexibility through the midfoot and some added cushioning. Over the years, we have recommended a range of runners such as the Asics Nimbus, the Brooks Glycerine, the Mizuno Enigma, the Nike Vomero or the Adidas Supernova Glide to runners with a neutral foot type.

  • Mild Pronation

“Guidance” is the magic word for this foot type. If you are diagnosed with a mild pronation, then we suggest, you hunt for a pair of shoes with a firmer heel counter and less midfoot flexibility. Unlike other foot types cushioning isn’t something you have to worry too much about and we recommend a moderate support, which can be found in the Asics Metarun and Kayano, the Mizuno Inspire or the Saucony Guide for example. Other alternatives for this foot type are the Nike Odyssey and the Brooks Ravena.

  • Moderate Pronation

Support, Support, Support is what you are after! You want a pair of runners with a firmer heel counter, moderate cushioning and a re-enforced midsole for less flexibility. You might find your runners a little stiff to start with but don’t worry; they will wear in and fit perfect with time. Ask your sporting good store for the Asics 3000, Mizuno Paradox, the Brooks Transcendence / Adrenaline or the Saucony Hurricane for optimal fit and maximum comfort.

  • Severe Pronation

Motion control is the key for maximum performance and comfort.

A wide last and less cushioning are what you are after if you have a severe pronation foot type. Also, make sure you purchase a ridged shoe with at least 1cm heel pitch. For best results ask your footwear specialist for the Brooks Beast or the Asics Divide.

2. Ankle motion is an important aspect to consider when buying footwear

Without getting too technical, we have to get technical here. However to keep it simple, let’s just say your ankle motion determines the heel pitch in your shoes. Each shoe is slightly different and can range from 0-12mm with a few exceptions.

We say exceptions because there is a good chance that almost everyone, reading this blog, will fall into one of the four categories below.

  • Stiff ankle

Less than 90 degrees’ dorsiflexion – 10-12mm heel pitch

  • Moderate ankle motion

90 degrees’ dorsiflexion – 6- 10mm heel pitch

  • Good ankle motion

10 degrees dorsiflexion – 4-10mm heel pitch

  • Hypermobile ankle

15 + degrees dorsiflexion – 8-12mm heel pitch

3. Talk about your Injury History with a footwear specialist

If you have a history of injuries such as heel pain, shin splints, calf pain or achilles pain then make sure your shoe has a heel pitch of 10-12 mm. Also, be careful when buying your pair of runners and make sure your shoes don’t bend through the midfoot.

4. What Type Of Running Are You Into?

Competition vs. Training vs. Speed workouts vs. Long Runs. There are so many variables when it comes to running. For example, racing shoes are very different to training shoes and should only be used for the occasional speed work session and race events. These shoes are lighter, flatter and more flexible than the average pair, which increases the risk of injuries considerably. Doing your due diligence and carefully evaluating the purpose for your runners can save you a lot of headaches in the long run. We suggest you take the time and talk to your sports store’s shoe specialist about your training regiments and goals to get the most appropriate footwear that fits your needs.

5. Keep The Terrain of your Usual Routes In Mind

Are you running cross-country or on solid ground? We would like to encourage you to think about your footwear the same way you think about the tires of your car. Off road cars have solid tires with a lot of grip for enhanced traction whereas race tires are slick and thin, designed for speed and performance. Well, your shoes are no different! Off road shoes are a lot firmer than your everyday pair of runners. They are designed for stability and support with features like the extra grip or water-resistance, which in return changes the structure of the upper on your shoes.

6. Your Running Style determines the footwear you need

The more you land on your rear foot, the more cushioning, support and heel pitch you need. Over the years working with professional athletes and everyday runners, we have seen a lot of different foot placements which all have an impact on your feet. Your heel pitch should be between 8-12mm if you come down rear first when running. If you have more of a balanced running style, then we recommend a heel pitch between 6-10mm or 4-8mm if you come down heavy on your forefoot.

You are ready now! Our guide should help you decide on the running shoes you want and what level of support you need. We all been there and know how overwhelming it can be to buy the right pair of runners to not only perform at your best but also to stay injury free.

What-type-of-running-are-you-into

Competition vs. Training vs. Speed workouts vs. Long Runs. There are so many variables when it comes to running.

Don’t get lost and use our guide to make the selection of your perfect runners a little bit easier and to help your thought process in deciding on the best possible fit for your feet.