No-Fail Way to Get Rid of Stitches

I don’t know if many other women runners are troubled with side stitches, but I get them on a regular basis, especially when I’m not paying attention to my pace and I’m running too fast down hills or if I’m running in heat + humidity. 

Many years ago, a fellow runner found me on my favorite trail doubled over in pain and he taught me this trick, which I have found is a never-fail way to get rid of side stitches…and the best part is that you don’t have to stop running to do it. Here it is:

What you have to do is alter your breath. Slow down to a comfortable pace. Take in a deep breath and holding it, tighten down on your abdominals. Hold this for just a few paces, and then breathe out. Continue a few more paces, and then repeat. Do this until the stitch is gone (usually 2 – 3 times).

Since adopting this technique I’ve never had to completely stop and walk out the stitch. It really works. Try it!

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