Running is a popular sport that not only helps us improve our heart and lung fitness, but also boosts our metabolism and burns fat. However, some people worry that running will cause their legs to get thicker and thicker, but is this true?
First of all, we need to understand the concept of the main muscle groups involved in sports while running. In fact, running mainly works muscles such as the biceps femoris muscles on the back of the thigh, quadriceps on the front of the thigh, and gastrocnemius on the calf. The degree of development of these muscles is directly related to the thickness of the legs.
So, does running cause your legs to get thicker and thicker?
The answer is no.
Studies have found that when running, muscle fibers experience minor damage and then become stronger and more resilient during recovery. This does not mean that the muscle volume will increase indefinitely, as muscle growth is influenced by a variety of factors such as genetics, training intensity, training frequency, etc.
In fact, for most runners, running makes the leg muscles tighter and more linear, rather than thicker. A study of female long-distance runners found that prolonged aerobic exercise helped reduce leg fat rather than gain muscle bulk.
Why do some people feel like their legs are thicker after running?
This may involve several factors: not doing well enough.
One is that the running posture is incorrect. Incorrect running posture can lead to excessive tension in the leg muscles, which can increase muscle bulk. Therefore, it is very important to maintain a correct running posture.
The second is that the training intensity is too high. Excessive training intensity can lead to muscle soreness and muscle edema, making the legs look thicker. Reducing the intensity of your training to give your muscles enough time to recover can help avoid this.
The third is improper diet. Consuming too much carbohydrates and salt can lead to edema. Maintaining a balanced diet and reducing salt intake can help maintain a normal body water balance.
Fourth, there is a lack of stretching. Stretching in time after running can help relieve muscle tension and promote muscle recovery. Ignoring the stretch can cause the muscles to be too tense, which can make the legs look thicker.
In general, running doesn't make your legs thicker and thicker. On the contrary, it makes the leg muscles tighter and more contoured. As long as you pay attention to the correct running form, reduce the intensity of your training and maintain a balanced diet, and stretch after running, you can achieve a good leg shape during your run. So, go for a run with confidence and make your legs healthier and more beautiful!