Why are stadiums running counterclockwise? The question is very unusual. The answers to it are also quite interesting: "Because the left leg is shorter than the right one" or "Clockwise is much more difficult to run." Many manage to joke: "So you can slow down time." One way or another, let's figure out which way is right to run around the stadium. We also give some tips for beginner athletes.
Why is the stadium running counterclockwise?
There are several theories why runners run this way and not otherwise. Below are 5 possible answers to the question: "Why do they run counterclockwise in stadiums?"
IAAF International Standard
Running counterclockwise is an international standard. It was accepted by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF). This is due to the fact that most runners are right-handed. And it’s easier for them to run, starting from the right foot. She is physically stronger and better developed. Moreover, for many, the right leg is actually several millimeters longer than the left.
When we push off with our right foot, we move the body a little to the left side. That is why it is much easier to run against the movement of the clock.
Traditions from the past
Another justification in which direction to run around the stadium is that running counterclockwise came to us from the ancient Greeks. At the competition, they used just such a tactic, arguing this by contrasting nature and sport. That is, natural and artificial development.
This theory was substantiated by the English scientist Norman Douglas, author of The History of Europe.
Physiology
Many believe that athletes run counterclockwise because during a turn to the left, blood rushes to the heart. And in large numbers. That's why stadiums run counterclockwise. So move more comfortably in physical terms.
Religious motive
The pagans believed that during the run the movement should be directed towards the sun. Namely - to the god who was worshiped. That is, against the movement of the clock.
Laws of physics
If you taught physics at school, you will definitely understand what we are talking about now.
The angular velocity vector is a physical concept, which consists in the fact that when the movement occurs to the left, the vector is directed vertically upward. This means that resistance to movement is not created.
If you run clockwise, then the vector will be directed vertically downward, that is, it will be much more difficult for you to run.
Not just running
But did you know that not only runners move against the clock? In the same way are carried out:
- horse racing at racetracks;
- motorcycle rides;
- car racing.
The only exception is Formula 1. There, cars move clockwise.
How to run in the stadium?
If you decide to start running, we recommend that you study the theory. In order for the loads to be more effective, you need to know a few rules that should not be neglected when running.
- Firstly, it is necessary to determine the goal. Why do you want to start running? To lose weight, stay in good shape, gain muscle mass? Choose which option is right for you. Now we will consider the usual run. It is suitable for those who would like to strengthen muscles and increase endurance. About running for weight loss was written a little later.
- When moving, almost all muscles and joints are involved: from the neck to the legs. And if a runner has any muscles that are poorly warmed up or underdeveloped, there is a chance of serious injury. That is why it is first necessary to do a small workout for all muscle groups. You will be ready for the start of cardio workout when you feel the heat in your muscles.
- During the run, keep your head straight, bend your arms at your elbows and relax your shoulders. Also monitor the position of the back. It is necessary to straighten it.
- A person with poor health needs to run, sticking to 110-120 beats per minute.
- People with average heart rates should have 130 beats per minute while running .
- In a person with a high level of health, the rate of heartbeats when running is determined as follows: take away your age from 220.
- If the pulse goes off scale, take a different pace of running or even switch to walking. Do not forget to relax. If your goal is to run 2 km, go a step every 500 m.
- While running, you should not feel pain, tingling, or discomfort. Otherwise, go to the step.
- What should be the breath? If you can talk with a partner, you have chosen the right pace, and your running technique is normal.
- We recommend that you drink water while running without gas in small sips. Since the body is gradually dehydrated. Take at least 400 ml of water with you for training.
- How often do I need to go for a run? Ideally, every morning. If you run in the gym, it will do 3-4 times a week. The weaker your health, the more often you need to run (at least 15 minutes).
- If it’s difficult for you to run or you get tired quickly, we picked up the wrong load. Visit a therapist, he will definitely tell you what activity is right for you, following from health indications.
- You also need to finish the training correctly. In no case do not stop abruptly and do not sit down. It is necessary to cool, bring the rhythm of the heart and breathing to normal. Walk another three minutes at an accelerated pace, and then go on a calm step. Do a little stretching exercise. Stretching will help you consolidate the result of cardio training.
- Do not forget to consume water for an hour after running.
- You can eat an hour after training.
- If the next day you wake up with pain in your muscles, do not worry - this is a natural process. Visit the sauna, jacuzzi or massage. Take a hot bath. Do stretching exercises or run again.
Ignorance of these rules can lead to injury or exhaustion. Surely in a week you will leave the race and postpone the idea of running. Do it wisely!
Is it best to run in the stadium?
Of course, running there is optional. You can choose any park, sidewalk or forest for this. However, if you like to measure your achievements, then a stadium is ideal for this. On large ones, one circle is 400 m, on school - 200 or 250 m.
In addition, the stadium has even coverage. You do not have to step over stones, grass or any rubbish. This means that the risk of injury is greatly reduced.
What time of day is better to run?
This is a common question for all novice athletes. Someone thinks that running is better in the morning. Someone thinks that an evening run is more useful. Let's look at the issue in more detail.
- It is believed that the ideal time for cardio training is from 8 to 11 in the morning.
- This is a great charging option for the body.
- You awaken your body and start all the processes in the body.
- Do not start 5 minutes after getting out of bed. Make sure you wake up to the end. Drink a glass of water, wash yourself, do a little workout, and go!
- Breakfast before jogging is undesirable. It is recommended to drink fresh in 40 minutes.
- If you run at other times, do not do it on a full stomach. Have a snack 2 hours before the run.
- Moreover, if you run the planned distance in the morning, you will feel an emotional lift all day. At least because of the realization that they have already completed a useful work before noon.
Of course, if you need to be at work at 8 in the morning, it makes no sense to force your body. Run on the track in the evening at the gym. However, if you have the opportunity, choose the morning for cardio workouts.
Jogging
If you want to lose extra pounds, remember the following recommendations:
- Running promotes weight loss only if its duration is more than half an hour. Also, do not jog, but at a fast pace.
- How many laps do beginners run in the stadium? In the first month, keep a distance of no more than two kilometers. That is, just five laps in a large stadium are enough. Let your muscles and body get used to the stress. After a period of adaptation, you can safely go to a distance of 4 km or more.
- Do not forget that training should be regular. Run at least two to three times a week.
- How to burn more calories? Use interval running: for example, 200 meters you are moving at maximum speed, then 200 meters go at a fast pace.
- Do not forget that training gives only 20% of the result. The remaining 80% is proper nutrition. Refuse fatty, fried, flour, sweet. Prefer organic food. It needs to be boiled, baked or steamed.
- The main condition for proper breathing while running for weight loss is to inhale and exhale through the mouth.
- Running in the morning can strengthen the cardiovascular and nervous systems, daytime - muscles, and evening - to reduce weight. Therefore, try to run after school or work, towards evening.
Of course, the rules for regular running, described just above, have also not been canceled in cardio for weight loss. Do not forget about the warm-up before jogging, stretching after it. Drink water, monitor your pulse and general physical condition.
Conclusion
Why stadiums run counterclockwise, found out. In addition, you received practical tips on how to run. Develop and exercise more. Good luck in your endeavors!