Stitch! :(

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to jogging...and just signed up for the 2012 London marathon. Fear not! I intend to get fit, build stamina and jog daily. But every time I jog I get a heck of a stitch in my left side, and sometimes i feel as if there's water moving around where the stitch is. It can crippling. How can I avoid this/get rid of it? Any help would be appreciated. 

Also - what kind of breathing technique should I be using?

I hate to ask basic questions - but I'm at a basic level!!

Thanks so much

Jen x

Hi,

You should introduce core strengthening sessions into your training programme such as pilates or even your own exercises which can be done in a gym or even at home. 20 mins at the end of a run 3 times a week is a good start. Over time, this can really help deter stitches as you aim to strengthen your stomach muscles.

In the meantime, a technique I use if a stitch makes an appearance is to change your breathing slightly so as to make sure you breathe OUT when your opposite foot from your stitch side strikes the ground. For example, a side stitch on the right, exhale hard when your left foot strikes the ground.

I swear by this technique as it's never let me down yet. Once the stitch disappears then you can regain your usual breathing pattern.

Good luck,

Deek