Getting a stitch

kingofcrunk
kingofcrunk Posts: 372 Member
edited December 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
I've recently taken up running and one of the biggest problems I face is that I often get a stitch. I've tried to work out why but I keep getting conflicting answers from people. Does anyone else get this? How do you overcome it? And do you know the cause of it? Thanks.

Replies

  • shivles
    shivles Posts: 468 Member
    If you've just started out its probably just an endurance thing and will get better as you run more. I also get a stitch if I run too fast, drink too much water, don't drink enough water or eat too soon before going out.
  • kingofcrunk
    kingofcrunk Posts: 372 Member
    If you've just started out its probably just an endurance thing and will get better as you run more. I also get a stitch if I run too fast, drink too much water, don't drink enough water or eat too soon before going out.

    Yes, these are all the things I've been told. Don't drink water before, but make sure to drink enough and make sure you aren't hungry but don't eat before. I guess it'll just be trial and error for me. I hope it improves because I know I can run for longer without stopping but the stitch sometimes forces me to have a walking break!
  • fisforfood
    fisforfood Posts: 1
    If you have a stitch then carry on exercising but press your fingers on to the area where the stitch is and maintain slow and steady breathing, it should go shortly after :) I mean that works for me, so I hope it does for you!
  • kingofcrunk
    kingofcrunk Posts: 372 Member
    If you have a stitch then carry on exercising but press your fingers on to the area where the stitch is and maintain slow and steady breathing, it should go shortly after :) I mean that works for me, so I hope it does for you!

    Thanks, I'll try it tonight!
  • nichojanes
    nichojanes Posts: 76 Member
    I had the same thing and found some running forums that suggest you breath out hard at the exact moment when the foot on the side of the stitch hits the ground. Keep doing so and the stitch will go.
    It sounds strange but seems to work OK for me, and is very simple.
  • nichojanes
    nichojanes Posts: 76 Member
    Also there is something about not drinking too much water before or during your run. Try not to drink before you run and make up the liquid you need after. Personally I still take a bottle with me as sometimes I need a little, but try to keep it to a minimum until after you have finished.
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