How Running Surfaces Can Affect a Runner's Performance
It is so amazing how running athletes manage to give a good performance on the field. According to a sports psychologist, being happy and committed, having a plan, and setting a focus, contribute to the success of an athlete, whether a golfer, a football player, or a runner.
Runners in particular acknowledge the importance of the type of shoes they are using, and the type of surface they are running on in their performance.
Running is considered one of the most enjoyable activities in the world because one can easily do it wherever he is. However, a lot of runners still fail to realise that different running surfaces could have an effect on their running form. Other surfaces help in avoiding muscle pains and one of these is synthetic playing surfaces that runners mostly prefer.
All runners normally come across a variety of surfaces during the course of their running routine. There are surfaces that increase their running speed while others could give a different result. These surfaces are those that are so malleable and easy to deform which will make it hard for the runner's body to stabilise itself and continue its stride, thus decreasing his running speed and affecting his movements and overall performance.
Choosing the right running surface is necessary to prevent foot injuries. Regardless if running is your sport or just your hobby, bear in mind that your body, especially your leg muscles, will always be adjusting to your movements. Inappropriate surfaces may even have your ankle sprained.
One of the best running surfaces is grass because it is soft and easy on the joints. Running on grass will give you a small chance of injury. However, wet grass can be dangerous and slippery so running on rainy days is not advisable.
Another great running surface next to grass is synthetic tracks which utilise polyurethane - a synthetic plastic that provides less shock absorption unlike other running surfaces. They may not be as great as grass but they are widely available and that explains why synthetic tracks are, in fact, commonly used in any country. You can even find a lot of schools and sports arenas in the country that make use of synthetic grass.
Concrete, on the contrary, is one of the worst surfaces you should avoid. Concretes are harder than asphalt. Falling or slipping on this kind of surface might cause serious damage to your ankles, hips, and knees. The country has plenty of sidewalks and concrete roads that you may find most accessible for your running routine but do not forget to be extra careful.
Nonetheless, whether you are running on synthetic grass, natural grass, or concrete, make sure that you pay attention to your movements because whatever type of surface that is, it can still jeopardise your safety if accidents happen.
About the Author
The author blogs about synthetic grass at http://syntheticgrassbenefits.blog.com/
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