The words relax and run are very seldom seen together in the same sentence. Most people on this planet seem to think that it is impossible to relax and run at the same time.

Most runners have realized that they can use running as a trigger for mental relaxation. For many of us, the simple ritual of putting on our shoes and warming up starts the process of relaxation and by the time we have finished our run, we feel like different people. Relaxed and restored people.

Physical relaxation while we run is another matter. Often after a run, we can feel loose and relaxed. During the run, we often have a habit of unconsciously tensing various muscle groups as we concentrate.

This is seen most clearly in the faces of runners. Especially when they are running hard, many people screw up their faces and furrow their brows which is a sure sign that all of their muscles are tense. While helping them to focus, this tension can eventually decrease efficiency and lead to injury in the long term.

So how do we combat muscle tension when we run. A part of this comes down to form, but the most important factor is psychology.

Muscle tension is controlled by us. We can either consciously or sub-consciously tense or relax our muscles. If we decide to relax and nothing happens, then chances are that it is our subconscious minds that are controlling the tension.

Read some hints for what to do at runningmonkeys.com

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