Running and stitches

[PollysPoppy]

I'm very much a newbie runner - just got my last run to do on the 5k app which will be 35 mins. This last couple of weeks, I seem to get a stitch every time I run. Why? I don't run for a minimum of two hours, more like 3, after eating. I focus on deep breaths into my tummy. Today the stitch started in my side only 6/7 minutes into the run ..... it was a loooonnng run!

So, how do I prevent or avoid them? Any ideas. DH thinks it might be posture - he could well be right. It eventually went today when I really straightened up and stuck my chest/tummy forward, if that makes sense! But that could well be coincidence.

Thanks!

[Statelychangers]

I suffer from this sometimes - try firming up your core -some say it's your diaphragm bouncing, run in an upright position. Don't drink an hour before running. Breath in as your left foot hits the ground. Not sure if any of these things really work but for me it eventually stops as my fitness and stamina improve.

[PollysPoppy]

Thanks Stately - have been drinking before going out so will cut that out as of today. I had googled and read about exhaling when the opposite foot to the stitch hits the ground so am going to try that too. Such a pain!

[Cguk81]

I second what statelychangers said about breathing out as your left foot hits the ground. And breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Well done on completing the C25k!

[PollysPoppy]

Tried it on Sunday and managed the 35 minutes without a stitch! Thanks ladies!