As a running coach and writer, I get a lot of questions about running. Sometimes, people already know the answer to their running questions before they even ask the question – but they basically want to hear confirmation from another runner or expert. But then there are other questions that people, even experienced runners, consider to be real stumpers. So here are answers to some of the running questions that leave runners scratching their heads.
1. Why do my running clothes still smell after I wash them?
Technical fabrics are great for running because they wick away your sweat but, unfortunately, bacteria (which causes the smell) gets trapped in the fibers and can be hard to get out. Here are a couple of tricks that can help get rid of the stink.
2. Why am I gaining weight during marathon training?
Some marathoners-in-training hope to lose weight during their training, but they're surprised when they actually gain a few pounds or hit a weight loss plateau. Find out what's happening.
3. Why does my foot sometimes go numb when I'm running?
Numbness or a tingling sensation (unrelated to the cold weather) in the toes is a common complaint among runners. Find out why it happens and what to do about it.
4. Why do my legs sometimes itch when running?
Some runners experience itchy legs when you start running, sometimes so bad that they have to stop running. Find out what's happening and what to do about it.
5. If I'm running 26.2 miles in a marathon, why is my longest training run only 20
Many first-time marathoners wonder why so many marathon training schedules don't go beyond 20 miles. How can you be prepared -- both mentally and physically -- to run six miles beyond your longest run? Find out the reasons behind this strategy.
