| Aqua jogging (also referred to as deep water running) is the best form of cross
training for runners. Because it mimics the running motion without the shock associated
with running (which can be as much as 700 pounds on runners' feet), it proves very helpful
for athletes coming off an injury, or merely looking to prevent injuries in the future. If
you suffer from stress reactions/stress fractures, severe shin splints/ plantar
fascitis/Achilles tendonitis/ ITB syndrome, hip or back problems, severe chondromalacia or
any other injury that is preventing you from running, consider aqua jogging. It allows the
runner to achieve the same cardiovascular workout without the constant pounding, and helps
increase venous return of inflammatory chemicals away from an injury site, which speeds
the healing process. Most importantly though, it allows for weekly mileage to be
maintained while recovering from injuries where tissues have been pushed to the orthopedic
limit (the body's ability to heal from stress).
Aqua jogging also allows the athlete to keep up their training intensity in a safer,
more controlled environment, and adds an element of change to the athlete's training
program. For help with this, or other cross training methods, talk to your local personal
trainer, coach, RunOn expert, or give us a call at Koala, we'd be glad to help.
Patrick N. Doyle, D.C.
Koala Health and Wellness Centers, Inc.
601 N. Akard St.
Dallas, Tx. 75201
214.969.6999
rdoyle@koalacenters.com |
