Snitches Get Stitches

Today makes 14 days since my last run.  I don't want to talk about it.   I have a cold that makes me feel like I have glass in my throat, my nose won't stop running, and I'm cranky about the weather. So let's not talk about my lack of running, mmmkay?

My Runners World showed up in the mail the other day, and though lately I've been losing interest in the magazine (since I feel like I'm not really the kind of runner that they're targeting), there were a few good articles in this month's issue.

One article, in particular, caught my eye.

Though my last half marathon was ultimately brought to ruin by an upset stomach and an urgently needed stop at a porta-potty, before my innards decided to revolt, I was struck by the dreaded Side Stitch.  Last year, I was plagued by side stitches a few times.  I thought I knew what caused them and how to handle them when they occurred.  But this article proved, once again, that I don't know much about much.

Did you know that ". . . just 10 minutes of core-strengthening exercises, like planks and donkey kicks, three times a week . . . can strengthen weak diaphragm muscles, making them more resilient to fatigue and less likely to cramp?"   You did?  Well, why the hell didn't you tell ME??  Jeez!  ;-)

The article also mentions that food can cause side stitches, as well as irregular breathing - that one, I knew.  See? I know stuff.  

If you want to read the rest of the article, check out the March 2014 issue of Runner's World, or you can do a Google search for general information.  (Am I helpful today, or what?!) 

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a date with a box of tissues, some tea, and whatever carbs we have in the house.  Haaaaa-choooo!!!!  

**The title of this post was meant as a joke, but the reality is that witness intimidation is no laughing matter.  If you do see a crime, report it.  If you're afraid of retaliation, ask for help from the authorities.   I may have been binge-watching Law & Order: SVU lately.  Don't judge.