Cancer is not just one of the deadliest diseases known to man, it’s also one of the most common. In 2015 alone, around 580,000 people succumbed to this ailment, while another 1.6 million were diagnosed with it.
Fortunately, the American Cancer Society (ACS) has a novel way of raising funds for cancer research: Relay for Life. This event was first hatched in 1985 by Dr. Gordy Klatt, who decided to walk and run for 24 hours in an effort to raise money for the ACS. Eighty-three miles and $27,000 later, this selfless act would become the inspiration that sparked this annual event.
For 2016, the local edition of Relay for Life in Stockton will be held on June 11. If you’re keen on joining this meaningful activity, West Stockton urgent care centers offer the following tips to have an injury-free and enjoyable experience:
Preparation is Key
Following Dr. Klatt’s footsteps, participants in Relay for Life events will spend most of the day running or walking. As such, you require proper and adequate training to avoid overexerting yourself.
Perhaps the best preparation you can do is to cover the route prior to the event. That way, you can acclimate your body to the actual distance and road conditions you’ll be facing. Likewise, try to keep off your feet in the days leading up to the relay. As such, lay off house chores that require prolonged standing such as mowing the lawn to keep your legs and feet fresh for the big event.
What you eat is an important part of your preparations as well. Don’t eat anything too heavy two hours prior to the event, as this might upset your stomach. A filling and healthy pre-relay meal would be a fruit smoothie because it offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, both of which will come in handy during prolonged events such as Relay for Life.
Keep Track of Your Body
With preparations done, it’s now time to hit the road! Of course, you want to give your best during the relay, but be mindful not to overwork yourself.
One issue you should pay close attention to is dehydration, which can have detrimental effects to your overall health. To keep troubles at bay, take a sip of water whenever your lips feel dry. A good rule of thumb is to consume half your bodyweight in ounces of water.
Likewise, keep an eye out for cramps, which often strike when a muscle is overused. If you do experience it, you can usually use self-care techniques such as stretching the affected muscles until symptoms alleviate. However, visit a trusted West Stockton walk in clinic if cramps cause excessive discomfort or some swelling occur alongside the leg, don’t get better with self care.
With these handy tips in mind, you can be more than ready to run for a cause and finish in the Relay for Life event.
Sources
Muscle cramp, mayoclinic.org
Self-Care at Home, emedicinehealth.com
Cancer Facts & Figures 2015, cancer.org
Tips for your first race, runnersworld.com
U.S. HealthWorks Stockton (West) 