Avoiding Running Injuries

 Part 6 – Multiple Matching (Questions 37–40)

You are going to read a magazine article in which four runners give advice about avoiding injuries.

For questions 37–40, choose from the runners A–D.

The runners may be chosen more than once.

Avoiding Running Injuries

What can runners do to reduce the likelihood of injury? Four experienced runners share their advice.

Runner A

Many runners believe the only way to improve is simply to run longer distances or train more frequently. However, repeating the same activity every day can place continuous stress on the same muscles and joints. For this reason, I think runners should include other forms of exercise in their training schedules.

Activities such as cycling or swimming can improve endurance without putting the same pressure on the legs that running does. Strength training can also be useful because stronger muscles help stabilise the body and reduce the likelihood of strains.

At the same time, runners must listen to their bodies carefully. Ignoring discomfort during training may transform a minor problem into a serious injury that requires weeks of recovery.

Runner B

Many coaches insist that runners should stop training immediately when they feel any kind of pain. While that advice is appropriate in cases of serious injury, I believe it is sometimes misunderstood. After demanding training sessions, it is normal for muscles to feel slightly sore.

In my experience, the best way to deal with this kind of discomfort is through effective recovery. Gentle stretching and slow jogging after training can help the muscles relax and reduce stiffness.

Runners should also remember that maintaining fitness does not necessarily require running every single day. Occasionally replacing a run with another endurance activity can reduce the stress placed on the body.

Runner C

Stretching has long been considered an essential part of preventing running injuries. As a result, many runners stretch carefully before every training session. However, recent research suggests that this habit may not provide the protection people expect.

Several scientific studies have compared runners who stretch before running with those who do not. Interestingly, the results show little difference between the two groups in terms of the number of injuries they experience.

This does not mean stretching is useless, but it may be more beneficial after exercise or later in the day when the muscles are already warm.

Runner D

Anyone who runs regularly should accept that injuries are almost inevitable. Statistics suggest that the average runner experiences at least one minor injury each year. The important thing is learning how to minimise the risk.

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is trying to improve too quickly. They suddenly increase the distance they run or the speed at which they train, believing this will help them progress faster. Unfortunately, this approach often leads to injuries.

A far better strategy is to increase training gradually and allow the body enough time to adapt between sessions.

Questions

Which runner:

37 refers to scientific research that challenges a commonly held belief?

38 recommends including different sports in a training programme?

39 suggests that a certain level of muscle discomfort after exercise is normal?

40 warns that beginners often increase their training too quickly?