getting a stitch

sallybetzingleboo

When I first feel a stitch coming on I feel all nostalgic as it reminds me of being about 10 years old running around in the streets with my friends which is probably the last time I actually ran anywhere. But then the real pain kicks in. I'm on the first week of the C25K so I'm only running for a minute then walking for a bit but after about 10 minutes I had to stop and double over, it felt like I had broken a rib. I think you're meant to just carry on and get through the pain but I guess I'm a wimp.

Does anyone know how to stop them happening or how to get rid of them quickly? I think they happen because there's not enough oxygen getting to the stomach, so should I make sure I leave a big gap between eating and running or am I not breathing properly?

myndee

I really want to know what people have to say about this also.. I've had this happen to me a few times since I've recently started running, what causes it? and what's the best way to get through it?

muffintopminx

I've heard that you should exhale every left step (or every other left step pending on how fast your going). I don't know the science behind it but I've tried it and it works for me. I think that's why the army has troops say "Left, left, left right left" when they march. I don't know, but it makes sense to me.

smurfguru

I had a trainer way back in the day that gave me a cure for this. It has worked for me for years. When I get a stitch on my left side I try to even out my breathing and lift that arm in the air while I do. It's supposed to help expand the side of the affected lung.