Other running surfaces include treadmills and water. Treadmills are very popular at fitness centers and may also be available to you when deployed aboard a ship. Most treadmills are state of the art in terms of cushioning and you can control the speed and intensity of your work out. Perhaps the biggest problem when working out on a treadmill is the boredom that is often associated with the monotony of the unchanging environment and the consistent pace. A portable cassette player or radio may be helpful, particularly during longer runs.
Deep water or aqua running is mainly used for rehabilitating injured athletes as it takes the pressure off of injured muscles and joints while providing cardiovascular benefits similar to those obtained with running on surface. This type of running is becoming popular at various swim centers
Warm-Up
A warm-up to lengthen short, tight muscles before running is crucial for preventing injuries that may result if muscles are “cold”. A longer muscle is less likely to get injured than a short, tight muscle because it can exert more force with less effort than a short muscle. Another benefit of warming up is that it protects tendons. Warm up by slow jogging or walking for five to 10 minutes before you run. After you warm up you need to stretch your hamstrings, quadriceps, hip flexors, groin, calves, achillcs, and the iliotibial band.
Cool-Down and Stretching
After completing your run, walk for a few minutes to cool-down. It is not a good idea to sprint at the end of your run and then come to a complete stop; this practice may result in an injury. Cooling down helps to shift the blood flow from the muscles to the heart and other vital organs. A cool down lets your heart rate slow down and your body gradually return to its pre-excrcise physiological state. Cooling down properly and stretching after your run will go a long way towards preventing injuries.
