A prospective cohort study examining 5,205 recreational runners found that increases in running distances beyond 10% of the longest session in the past month significantly raised injury rates. Over 18 months, 35% of participants sustained running-related injuries, primarily overuse injuries. Various tracking methods indicated that while small spikes in distances were not directly linked to injury increases, larger spikes posed heightened risks. The findings, presented by lead author Jesper Schuster Brandt Frandsen of Aarhus University, reveal the importance of gradual distance increases to prevent injuries.
1. Study involved 5,205 runners over 18 months.2. 35% reported running-related injuries.3. Injuries were mainly overuse (72%).4. Significant injury risk with single-session distances exceeding 10% of previous longest run.5. Tracking methods included Garmin GPS devices.6. Higher acute-to-chronic workload ratios correlated with lower injury rates.7. Predominantly male participants (78%).8. Limitations include reliance on self-reported injuries.
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