Your Body

Running builds endurance, challenges the muscles – and has some pretty bizarre effects on your mind and body. Here, local and international athletes tell all. Their knowledge = your power

- Marissa Gainsburg and Wanita Nicol

Everyone knows that runner’s high is a thing: reams of research and anecdotal evidence prove that (wooo!) endorphins are real. Also very much a thing, but rarely spoken about? Runner’s low. Thirdly a thing? Weird bodily mishaps. And because this is not Fight Club, we are going to talk about it. All of it.

More pointedly, some of the finest local and international athletes are sharing what actually happens when they put takkie to tarmac. From the small ways they find inspiration and stay motivated, to the mortifying moments that can happen on kilometre 17, there’s oodles of wisdom in their words. Learn through their experience to enjoy your best run ever.

RACING RITUAL

“I always leave my shoelaces tied until just before a race,” says American marathoner and Olympic medalist Deena Kastor. “So I can then take time unlacing my shoes to reflect on all the hard work I put in leading up to the event. I allow myself to get excited as I lace up. It’s become a tradition that messes with my head if I skip it – or if my husband unties my shoes, like he once did. It’s important to centre yourself; it will help you find meaning when you need it most.”

BREATHING LESSONS

“My tip is to create a rhythmic pattern of breathing in and out with your foot strikes,” says SA 10 000m Olympian Dominique Scott. “For example, breathing in using both your nose and mouth during two foot strikes and out through your nose and mouth on the third foot strike.”

But if you’re sprinting, there’s literally no time to breathe. “Sometimes I only take my first breath after the first 40 metres,” says SA Olympic sprinter Alyssa Conley.

MUSIC THERAPY