common running terms how many don t you know

Running is generally easy to understand, but sometimes many terms can be quite obscure. Whether you're a novice or a veteran, you should know this terminology. Here, we have compiled some common running terms for you in alphabetical order from A to F.

A

Achilles tendon: The tendon at the back of the foot that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendinitis can occur when beginners increase their mileage and/or intensity too quickly. This is especially common among new runners who have been inactive for years or frequently wear high heels (which can shorten and tighten the Achilles tendon). Flexibility in the calves and ankles can help reduce the strain on the Achilles tendon.

Aid station: Also known as a water station. It is a place along the race route where volunteers provide water and sports drinks. In large events, gels, energy bars, or other supplies are often distributed.

Altitude training: Elite runners train at high altitudes to increase the number of red blood cells and improve muscle oxygenation. At high altitudes, the reduced oxygen levels lead to decreased oxygen delivery to the blood. The kidneys secrete more of the hormone erythropoietin (EPO), which stimulates the body to produce more red blood cells. Runners find they can train harder, and a month of altitude training can improve their performance for several weeks after returning to lower altitudes. If you can't train at high altitudes, arriving 24 hours before the race is the best option. You won't have time to acclimate, but you can minimize the negative effects of thin air, such as dehydration or insomnia. Start the race slowly and gradually increase your pace. Expect slower performance. The dry, thin air can cause altitude dehydration, so be sure to stay well-hydrated. Rest adequately and acclimate at low altitudes for a few weeks before racing again.

Aquajogging: Running in deep water where your feet don't touch the bottom, against the resistance of the water, has many benefits similar to road running. A buoyancy belt helps keep your body upright and your movements stable.

B

Bandit: A person who participates in a race without registering or paying the entry fee.

Bib: A piece of cloth with numbers (called a race number) used to identify each runner during a race.

Black toenails: This condition is caused by running downhill too much or wearing shoes that are too small. It is mainly due to the toes hitting the front of the running shoes, causing bruising. It usually resolves on its own within a few months.

Bloody nipples: Usually caused by excessive friction between the shirt and nipples during running. It is more common in men or in cold weather. It can be remedied with adhesive bandages and nipple protectors, available at running stores.

Body Mass Index (BMI): A simple estimate of body fat used to determine if a person's weight is healthy. The formula is BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height^2 (m), applicable to all men, women, and children.

BQ: Abbreviation for Boston Qualifying time. It is usually used to describe the marathon or half-marathon finish time required to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

Brick workout: A training session that includes consecutive cycling and running. It is usually used by triathletes or duathletes to prepare for their target races.

C

Carb-loading: The practice of increasing the percentage of carbohydrates in your diet a few days before a marathon, half-marathon, or long run training. (Note: Carb-loading is not just about eating more.) Carb-loading stores a large amount of glycogen in the muscles and liver, making it available during the race; it is most effective during the tapering period before the race.

Certified course: In the United States, a marathon or half-marathon course that has been accurately measured and certified by USA Track & Field. Only times run on certified courses are recognized for records or national rankings.

Chafing: The phenomenon of bleeding and blistering caused by friction between the skin and clothing or between skin and skin.

Chip: A small plastic piece attached to a runner's shoelaces to track their progress and record their time during a race. The timing chip is activated when you step over the start, finish, and multiple electronic mats along the course. In most races, if you forget to bring your timing chip, your time will not be officially recorded.

Cooldown: A period of light physical activity, such as walking, after a long or strenuous run. This helps gradually lower the heart rate and prevent blood from pooling in the legs.

Corral: Dividing runners into different pace groups in the starting lineup helps organize the race. The faster you are, the closer you start to the front. These corrals are especially important in large races like marathons, where elite runners start at the very front.

E

Endorphins: A chemical in the brain long believed to be responsible for the 'runner's high' (the euphoric feeling runners claim to experience). Recent research attributes this to endocannabinoids—molecules produced by the body that are said to reduce pain and anxiety and promote pleasure.

F

Fartlek: Speed play or Swedish fartlek (the concept originated in Sweden), is a form of speed training where you can run faster for as long (or as short) as you want.