Running can be extremely tiresome and after completing a hectic round of running, you might want to sit and relax for a while. But, should you? Sitting immediately after running is highly NOT recommended.
Experts widely agree that running is an excellent exercise with numerous health benefits. It helps strengthen muscles, improve cardiovascular fitness, burn calories, and maintain a healthy weight. However, like all exercises, running should be approached with proper discipline to maximize its effectiveness and avoid potential health risks. A crucial aspect of this discipline is what you do immediately after running. Did you know that sitting down right after an intense run can negatively affect your body? Let’s explore the potential consequences of sitting down right after a sweat-breaking run.
To understand why you shouldn't sit after running, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Shreedhar Rangaraj, Fitness Expert, Cult.
1. Blood Pooling
Rangaraj said, “Running increases your heart rate, causing your heart to pump blood more vigorously and increasing blood flow to your muscles. If you sit down immediately after running, this can impede blood flow, causing it to pool in your lower extremities.” This pooling can lead to dizziness or even fainting due to a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Also read: Want To Get Into Running? Here’s Everything You Need To Know
2. Muscle Stiffness and Soreness
Every gym-goer understands the importance of post-workout relaxation for stiff muscles. Similarly, running is a continuous workout that tightens muscles, particularly in the legs. Rangaraj explained, “Sitting immediately after running can cause these muscles to stiffen further, leading to increased soreness. It’s advisable to engage in gentle movement, such as a brisk walk or light stretching, to help your muscles gradually relax.”
3. Impaired Recovery Process
Running is an intense exercise that helps clear metabolic waste products like lactic acid, which can accumulate during strenuous activity. According to Rangaraj, sitting too soon after running can slow this process, potentially prolonging recovery time and increasing the risk of injury. “Active recovery, such as walking or dynamic stretching, can help accelerate the clearance of these waste products,” he recommended.
4. Reduced Flexibility and Mobility
Running often tightens muscles like the hip flexors and hamstrings. “If you sit down immediately after a run, these muscles can become even more rigid and stiff, reducing overall flexibility and mobility,” Rangaraj explained. A proper cool-down routine, including stretching, can help these muscles relax and lengthen, preserving flexibility and preventing potential injuries.
Also read: Running For Heart Health: Why You Shouldn't Overdo It
5. Circulation and Oxygen Flow
After performing exercises and doing heavy workout, cool down is highly recommended. Same applies to running. “Cooling down after an intense workout encourages continued blood flow and oxygen delivery to your muscles, which is essential for muscle repair and recovery,” Rangaraj said, adding, “This process helps reduce fatigue and ensures that your muscles are ready for your next workout.”
Conclusion
Running is not only great for your physical health but also for boosting your mood and mental focus. However, to fully reap these benefits, it’s essential to follow a proper cool-down and recovery process. This will help you transition smoothly from your workout while preserving the psychological and physical benefits of exercise.