Not only is running a great way to keep fit, it also helps improve circulation and bone density, which deteriorates as we age,” says Dr Robin Chatterjee, Consultant in Musculoskeletal, Sport & Exercise Medicine atThe Lister Hospital (hcahealthcare. co.uk). “It’s also important to keep fit and active to ward off a number of common health problems such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and even some cancers,” he adds.
Looking after your knee health as a longer-distance runner is not just about care after the fact, Chatterjee says. Looking after your knees after a marathon is far too late; you need to start your care before and during your training programme, not just when you cross the finish line. Dr Chatterjee says:“Caring for your knees before, during and after a marathon will help you maintain good knee health and prevent long-term injury, particularly runner’s knee.” Runner’s knee is a common knee condition for runners, and usually presents itself as a dull pain on the knee cap.This can be caused by how you run, a weakness or imbalance in the muscles that support your knee, or a misalignment in your gait.