1. The problem: Wearing old running shoes or wearing the wrong type of running shoes for your foot and running style can lead to running injuries.
The solution: Go to a running specialty shop, where knowledgeable salespeople can evaluate your running style and foot type. When they determine whether you're an overpronator, underpronator, or neutral runner, they'll make shoe recommendations for you.
Once you get the right pair of running shoes, make sure you replace them every 300-350 miles because the loss of cushioning can lead to injuries. About halfway through the life of your shoes, you might want to buy another pair to rotate into your runs. Your running shoes will last longer when you allow them to decompress and dry out between workouts. Also, having a fresh pair of running shoes as a reference will help you notice when your old ones are ready to be replaced.
2. Question: How Should I Breathe When Running?
I've heard that I should breathe in through my nose and out through my mouth when I run. Is that correct?
Answer: No, that's wrong. You should allow air to enter through both your mouth and nose when you're running. Your muscles need oxygen to keep moving and your nose simply can't deliver enough.
Make sure you're breathing more from your diaphragm, or belly, not from your chest -- that's too shallow. Deep belly breathing allows you to take in more air, which can also help prevent side stitches.
To be continued
