Damilola Adegbite Instagram – If you ever feel very itchy in your thighs, abdomen or legs when you run, that’s what’s called “Runner’s itch”. It usually occurs when you start running as a beginner or resume exercising after a break. Besides being a very uncomfortable feeling (like you just want to rip off your pants right there and scraatchhhhh😅) it’s a completely harmless reaction that can happen for various reasons:
1. Increased Blood Flow: During exercise, blood flow to your muscles and skin increases which can irritate surrounding nerves and lead to itching.
2. Histamine Release: Exercise triggers the release of histamines, chemicals in your body that play a role in immune responses. Histamines can cause itching as part of their function in widening blood vessels.
3. Dry Skin: If your skin is dry, the friction caused by running can exacerbate the sensation of itching. This is particularly common in colder weather or if you’re not properly hydrated.
4. Fabric Irritation: The materials in your clothing or running gear can also contribute to itching. I personally find running with shorts much less itchy than with long leggings
5. Poor Circulation: If you haven’t been active for a while, your capillaries may not be used to handling increased blood flow. This sudden surge can lead to itching as your circulatory system adapts.
To prevent runner’s itch, stay hydrated, moisturize to reduce friction, wear breathable and comfortable clothing and warm up gradually. Instead of going straight into a run, alternate between walking and jogging for a few days so your body gets used to increased circulation. The itch should gradually subside and go away after a few days and you can run in peace 🙂
Happy running! 🙂❤️
#runhappy #runforlife #runningmotivation #cardiomotivation | Posted on 13/Aug/2024 16:46:56
